Harley's Story

Like most normal five year olds, Harley loves the Disney movie “Frozen,” singing “Let It Go” at the first opportunity to break into song. Unlike other children, however, Harley has survived three open-heart surgeries for a congenital birth defect in the left side of her heart.

It hasn’t been easy for Harley. The first eight months of her life were spent in the hospital. She is always at the doctor for appointments, and she needs daily medication through a tube in her stomach. Her weakened immune system leaves her vulnerable to other illnesses.

Because she spent so much time in the hospital, Harley is additionally challenged by developmental delays. Her grandmother credits Harley’s ongoing progress to the dedicated Hope Kids Care staff. She attends weekly physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy to continue making improvements.

Harley also takes piano lessons as a form of music therapy through Hope Kids Care. By learning to play songs such as “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star,” Harley has come out of her shell and is “talking so much now,” said her grandmother.

“She is very, very smart. Her mind is not a problem. It’s just catching up. I am lucky to have her. She is my life.”