Kayla Keisler

“When I went in for my 20-week anatomy scan, my doctor noticed something concerning with our baby boy’s heart. She then referred us to a fetal cardiologist, and we met with them the very next day—ironically, on Valentine’s Day. It was then we received the news no parent is ever prepared to hear: “Your son has Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome.” This meant our son had only half of a functioning heart, which is one of the most severe heart defects. He would need open-heart surgery within the first week of life, followed by two more surgeries.

Despite this diagnosis, Beckett was born full-term and as healthy as possible under the circumstances—an incredible answer to prayer. Immediately after birth, he was transferred to the CVICU at Medical City Dallas. As the date for his first surgery approached, Beckett had a routine CT scan. During the scan, doctors discovered a brain bleed, likely sustained during birth. This finding meant they couldn’t safely proceed with the planned operation. Instead, they performed a less invasive procedure at just six days old to place pulmonary artery bands, buying time until his brain had healed.

By God’s grace, the brain bleed resolved, and Beckett was strong enough to undergo the Norwood procedure—his second open-heart surgery—at nearly one month old. We believe this delay was part of the Lord’s plan, as it gave our little fighter time to gain strength. After spending six weeks in the hospital, Beckett was finally able to come home.

The weeks that followed were some of the most critical, known as the “interstage” period between surgeries. My husband and I, brand-new parents with no medical background, had to learn to be nurses overnight. We administered medications, placed his NG tube, gave blood thinner injections, and managed every aspect of his care. It was terrifying and overwhelming, but we were determined to give Beckett everything he needed. At five months old, Beckett had his third surgery—the Glenn procedure. He did remarkably well and was discharged just five days later—on our wedding anniversary.

Currently, Beckett is a thriving almost 2 year old and is going to be a big brother this summer! Beckett still has one more routine open heart surgery to receive around age 3-4. Through every moment of fear, uncertainty, and hope, we’ve seen the Lord’s hand in Beckett’s journey. His life is a testament to strength, faith, and miracles, and we are committed to sharing his story as a reminder of the power of love and prayer.”