Patient Stories

Naomi Debello—This 14 year old spent her entire life tinted blue until a life-changing heart surgery. Read Naomi's story >

Shoham Das—This 16-year-old is thriving after his Fontan surgery for DORV, having earned three black belts with half a heart and a whole lot of spirit. Read Shoham’s story >

Ziyan Liu—This 11-year-old with a single ventricle is fit to run after receiving a ventricular assist device (VAD). The Single Ventricle Program helped Ziyan regain her strength, transition back to school, and fully participate in physical education and running. Read Ziyan’s story >

Carmel Smith—This 32-week-old premature infant received the Norwood procedure for hypoplastic left heart syndrome from Frank Hanley, MD. At the time, she was one of the smallest babies in Northern California and possibly the world to survive the procedure. Read Carmel’s story >