**Parents believed their newborn had Covid, but their world was shattered**
A couple from Hendy, Carmarthenshire, experienced a rollercoaster of emotions when their daughter, Esme, was born on New Year’s Day 2021. What started as a joyful beginning quickly turned into a nightmare when, just 10 days after her birth, it became apparent that something was seriously wrong with Esme’s health. Initially suspected to be an infection like Covid or bronchitis, further tests revealed that Esme was actually suffering from a congenital heart defect known as Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD). This defect involves a large hole in the heart’s chambers and a single valve instead of two, leaving Emily Bowen and Matthew Mariani, the parents, devastated by the news.
The following three weeks were a whirlwind for the family as they navigated between hospitals in Cardiff and Swansea, with the added challenge of Covid restrictions limiting one parent’s presence in the ward at a time. As they awaited a date for Esme’s crucial surgery, Emily and Matthew had to quickly learn how to tube-feed their daughter and even how to perform CPR on the infant in case of an emergency. Eventually, at just six months old, Esme underwent her first open-heart surgery at Bristol Children’s Hospital, conducted by Professor Massimo Caputo, funded by the British Heart Foundation. Remarkably, Esme recovered so well that she did not require tube feeding upon discharge from the hospital.
Esme’s journey inspired Matthew to embark on various fundraising challenges, including participating in The Great North Run and preparing for his second London Marathon. Together, the family has raised over £25,000 for different causes, with a significant portion going to the British Heart Foundation. Esme, who will be turning four on New Year’s Day, continues to thrive and live life to the fullest, participating in activities like swimming, scooter riding, and even skiing. Her resilience and strength have not only brought pride to her parents but have also touched the hearts of many around her.
The family is set to receive an award at the upcoming Heart Hero Awards, acknowledging their unwavering support and efforts in raising awareness about the challenges faced by those affected by heart and circulatory diseases. This recognition comes as a testament to Esme’s bravery and the entire family’s dedication to making a difference in the lives of others. The British Heart Foundation’s Young Heart Hero Awards celebrate children born with congenital heart conditions, survivors of early open-heart surgery, exceptional fundraisers, and individuals who have shown remarkable resilience in the face of heart-related illnesses.
Dr. Charmaine Griffiths, Chief Executive of the British Heart Foundation, expressed admiration for the young heart heroes and emphasised the importance of continued support for research to help families like Esme’s overcome such challenges. The Heart Hero Awards ceremony at Chessington World of Adventures provided a day of celebration and fun for the inspirational youngsters and their families, adding a touch of magic and sparkle to their remarkable stories. As the family looks ahead to more milestones and achievements, Esme stands as a symbol of hope and resilience, proving that with determination and support, anything is possible in the face of adversity.