When Jasmine and her family received news that their unborn son, Theodore, was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) during his 20-week scan, their world changed overnight. HLHS is a rare and severe condition where the left side of the heart is significantly underdeveloped, leaving Theodore with a heart that requires extensive surgical intervention just to function. There is no cure for his condition, but many children live very full lives after a series of three open heart surgeries designed to redirect the flow of blood through his heart and body—one at birth, one around six months, and the third between ages two and three.
At just one day old, Theodore underwent his first surgery. He stayed in the hospital for the next three months, a crucial period for his recovery. Now, at six months old, Theodore is preparing for his second surgery, with his family bracing themselves for the next chapter in his care.
However, the specialized cardiac care Theodore needed was not available in their hometown of Saint John, NB. Instead, he would have to be treated in Toronto—over 1,500 km away. “It was devastating news to learn that not only did our son have a serious congenital heart defect, but that treatment would be difficult to obtain where we lived. It felt very isolating to be a first-time mom giving birth and learning to care for my baby in a hospital over 400 km (IWK in Halifax) and 1,500 km (SickKids in Toronto) away from our family and support systems, as well as it would be a huge financial strain on our family.”
Amidst this uncertainty, a hospital social worker introduced Jasmine to Hope Air. They provided vital travel assistance, easing some of the burdens that had weighed heavily on the family. “Hope Air has been fabulous to work with, they take care of everything and reduce the mental load of planning and booking flights and accommodations.” For Jasmine, this support meant that instead of worrying about coordination, she could focus on caring for Theodore and her family during an emotionally trying time.
Hope Air first assisted the family when Theodore was just three weeks old, arranging his transport to the IWK Health Centre in Halifax from his admission at SickKids. Later supported his travel to Toronto for his second surgery in September 2024. This continued support was a lifeline for Jasmine’s family, allowing them to avoid significant financial stress. “Without Hope Air, we might have had to rely on credit cards or fundraise to cover the travel expenses and the thought of balancing medical costs, travel expenses, and basic needs while managing Theodore’s health was overwhelming, but Hope Air’s assistance brought invaluable relief.”
Today, Theodore is thriving, his resilient spirit evident as he awaits his upcoming surgeries. For Jasmine and her family, Hope Air’s support has gone beyond financial assistance; it has provided emotional reassurance and stability in a time of great need.
Theodore’s journey is far from over, but with Hope Air by their side, his family feels better equipped to face the challenges ahead. Hope Air’s support has allowed them to focus on what truly matters: being there for Theodore, advocating for his health, and nurturing his future with hope and resilience.
“Although Canadians have accessible healthcare, specialized services are often far from home. Hope Air helps bridge the gap for families like ours. We are so grateful for the assistance in helping our son get the best care possible. Without help from Hope Air, and our community, this journey would be so much more difficult. Thank you!”
When Jasmine and her family received news that their unborn son, Theodore, was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) during his 20-week scan, their world changed overnight. HLHS is a rare and severe condition where the left side of the heart is significantly underdeveloped, leaving Theodore with a heart that requires extensive surgical intervention just to function. There is no cure for his condition, but many children live very full lives after a series of three open heart surgeries designed to redirect the flow of blood through his heart and body—one at birth, one around six months, and the third between ages two and three.
At just one day old, Theodore underwent his first surgery. He stayed in the hospital for the next three months, a crucial period for his recovery. Now, at six months old, Theodore is preparing for his second surgery, with his family bracing themselves for the next chapter in his care.
However, the specialized cardiac care Theodore needed was not available in their hometown of Saint John, NB. Instead, he would have to be treated in Toronto—over 1,500 km away. “It was devastating news to learn that not only did our son have a serious congenital heart defect, but that treatment would be difficult to obtain where we lived. It felt very isolating to be a first-time mom giving birth and learning to care for my baby in a hospital over 400 km (IWK in Halifax) and 1,500 km (SickKids in Toronto) away from our family and support systems, as well as it would be a huge financial strain on our family.”
Amidst this uncertainty, a hospital social worker introduced Jasmine to Hope Air. They provided vital travel assistance, easing some of the burdens that had weighed heavily on the family. “Hope Air has been fabulous to work with, they take care of everything and reduce the mental load of planning and booking flights and accommodations.” For Jasmine, this support meant that instead of worrying about coordination, she could focus on caring for Theodore and her family during an emotionally trying time.
Hope Air first assisted the family when Theodore was just three weeks old, arranging his transport to the IWK Health Centre in Halifax from his admission at SickKids. Later supported his travel to Toronto for his second surgery in September 2024. This continued support was a lifeline for Jasmine’s family, allowing them to avoid significant financial stress. “Without Hope Air, we might have had to rely on credit cards or fundraise to cover the travel expenses and the thought of balancing medical costs, travel expenses, and basic needs while managing Theodore’s health was overwhelming, but Hope Air’s assistance brought invaluable relief.”
Today, Theodore is thriving, his resilient spirit evident as he awaits his upcoming surgeries. For Jasmine and her family, Hope Air’s support has gone beyond financial assistance; it has provided emotional reassurance and stability in a time of great need.
Theodore’s journey is far from over, but with Hope Air by their side, his family feels better equipped to face the challenges ahead. Hope Air’s support has allowed them to focus on what truly matters: being there for Theodore, advocating for his health, and nurturing his future with hope and resilience.
“Although Canadians have accessible healthcare, specialized services are often far from home. Hope Air helps bridge the gap for families like ours. We are so grateful for the assistance in helping our son get the best care possible. Without help from Hope Air, and our community, this journey would be so much more difficult. Thank you!”