Hole in the Heart

[Bangkok]

A friend of mine has just become a Dad (a much anticipated and welcome event).  His daughter has a (large) hole in her heart. The doctors have said she will need a major operation in 12 months time.  He needs to talk to someone, so I need to find out more to be able to help.  Has anyone experience of this, or knowledge of good sites?

[Lindy Loo]

Hiya Bangkok, I'm sorry to hear about your friend, it must be a very worrying time for him and his partener/wife.

 

Try this link to the British Heart Foundation Here . It gives quite a bit of information about 'Atrial septal defect' (hole in the heart) and it's treatment.

 

This one might help too Here .It's for a site called 'Open heart' and again gives details about hole in the heart.

 

Hope these help and good luck to you friend and his family.

[Litchick]

Hey Bangkok -- not too much to help you, but when I was young, a friend of mine had the same thing.  She had the operation, is completely fine and grew up happy and healthy.  Good luck to your friend....

[abrakazabra]

Hiya Bangkok, I'm sorry to hear about your friend's child - it must have come as quite a shock.
I've been there, though, as my son was born with an atrial septal defect and had open heart surgery at Alder Hey, to close the hole, when he was 3 months old.
He is now nearly 10 years old and apart from his "zip" (his name for his chest scar!) you would never know of his past problems as he leads a full and active life.
If you or your friend would like to contact me, please do - [Email address removed in accordance with site policy - AB Editor]

[Bangkok]

Thank you all for the links and the encouragement.  I know feel a lot more comfortable talking with my friend - I am taking him out tomorrow, so hopefully can be positive (and I will take a print out of this post pre my message). 

[Litchick]

After the surgery let us know how the child (and your friend!) are doing, please.

[peanut]

my heart goes out to that family but remember, a doctors advice is always best and it wouldn't hurt to get a second doctors opinion also. Reading the info. is good too but a doctor can clear up any questions you have about what you are reading.