A child’s smile is so innocent and full of life! Behind those smiles are stories and experiences that we may never know about….Let me tell you what lies behind Joseph’s (JoJo) smile.
In March of 2006, Joseph caught a virus that caused him to have a high-grade fever. The virus invaded and damaged his heart. Joseph was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, a rare weakening of the heart muscles. JoJo faced a long admission at MUSC with the implantation of an internal defibrillator.
On March 24, 2007, JoJo collapsed on his porch. Luckily, the defibrillator discharged appropriately and saved his life! His father, Stephen, successfully performed CPR on JoJo. Within 3 hours, JoJo was airlifted to MUSC. On March 25, 2007, Joseph was placed on a life saving heart and lung bypass machine (ECMO). On March 26, 2007, Joseph was placed on the Heart Transplant list. The medical team had decided immediately that Joseph needed a ventricular assist device. They began working eagerly to get Joseph a device never used at this facility before. It has not been used much in the U.S. at all. It is not even FDA approved. It is known as the Berlin Heart Pump.
On April 4, JoJo made history by becoming the first pediatric patient in South Carolina (88th in the nation) to receive a Berlin Heart during the 10.5 hour surgery at the Medical University. Within hours of the surgery, he was alert and responsive. Amazing!
Joseph underwent a heart transplant on April 13, 2007, only 8 days after receiving the Berlin Heart and five days before his 6th birthday! He recovered well and was released from the hospital 2 weeks after his transplant.
Truly an amazing story that gives me chills! JoJo is a wonderful example of bravery and resilience!
To learn more about JoJo’s brave battle, log on to www.helpjojo.com and to do donate to a great cause, stop in and see us at one of our branches!
Chao for now,
Leslita
