In honor of the many CHD superheroes just like Kellen, we are providing support so that every family can feel empowered. Kellen Austin Dorse was born on April 1, 2016 with multiple congenital heart defects. He was air lifted to Le Bonheur Children's Hospital in Memphis, TN where he immediately began treatment. He endured three weeks in the NICU and was discharged home shortly before turning one mo
nth old. At two months old, following a cardiology check up, it was discovered that he needed additional surgery to repair his heart. What was supposed to be an easy fix and a one week stay in the CVICU turned into a four month ordeal. During the course of his treatment Kellen received two open heart surgeries, three catheter procedures, and one joint surgery/catheter operation. He was also briefly placed on life support (ECMO) for three days after his heart failed following a procedure causing him to suffer a stroke and a brain bleed. At four months old, he was listed as the first heart transplant candidate at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital under their new heart transplantation program. While waiting for a new heart, Kellen passed away on September 16, 2016 due to complications beyond our control. Kellen was a fighter and overcame many obstacles. He continued to amaze us every single day with his resilience and inspired us all to ! His story has touched thousands and in honor of his memory his family has started Kellen's Big Heart Fund to benefit the children and families battling congenital heart disease in the CVICU at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital. It is our hope that we can provide the support needed to ensure that every hospital stay is an enjoyable one. Please join us in helping these kids and families fight the hardest, biggest fight of their lives!
