Tiffany

  PRINT       SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FEED    

    

Hello Dr. Zahn,

Wow, where do I begin?

10 years ago, my husband and I had only dreamed about the Melody Valve for our daughter.  For her first five years of life, it was very difficult.  Tiffany "always" challenged the doctors and surgeons (not consciously of course). She was "always" a difficult case, whether it was an infection, 2 cardiac arrests (both times opened up in ICU 8-10 hours post-op), respiratory arrest, difficulty getting off ventilator...you name it she's done it.  Kevin and I have experienced all emotions between despair to pure relief over the last 16 years. So, it was not a surprise to us when you walked into the waiting room and explained that she was a challenge.  We knew she would be. She wouldn't be Tiffany!

Just a little background on the young lady you helped. She's a twin and has another younger sister. She's an avid reader and is currently writing a book.  She's been playing golf for the past 3 years for her high school. She went from the 3rd spot last season to the #1 spot this season for her team.  She was ranked #4 in Pasco county! The state athletics did approve a golf cart for her to use this season for she could not walk 4 holes.  She managed to play some awesome golf despite her body not feeling good.  She didn't let anything stop her! She was one golfer away from moving on to Regional's. Over the years, she has also raised over $30,000 for the American Heart Association. 

To know that you weren't going to give up on an amazing young lady was just pure joy and relief in our hearts. We are still overwhelmed by the fact that her valve has been replaced in this way. We are still in shock that things went our way this time. What a beautiful thing!

WE are saying THANK YOU to you and to your team of doctors! We also thank GOD for giving you this amazing talent. You are here on this earth to save children like our daughter. What a wonderful and fulfilling emotion that must be for you.  We thank you also for giving her the opportunity to acquire a golf scholarship so that she can pursue her dream of becoming an RN!! We can't wait to see what she does in this world!

Our sincere gratitude,
Kevin, Sandy, Sierra, Tiffany, and Danielle