Hearts For Heroes Team

Rory is a sweet and curious one year old boy who has a diagnosis of Ventricular Septal Defect of the heart.

From birth, Rory had a large hole in his heart which put major stress on his major organs, immune system and blood sugar levels. Because of his diagnosis, Rory was hospitalized seventeen times during his first year of life. He had open heart surgery in April of 2022. Rory is also diagnosed with Hyperinsulinism.

When he gets sick with a cold or minor virus, his blood sugars drop. He is then hospitalized and a feeding tube is placed. Due to the frequent hospitalizations, need for specialized care and Rory’s weakened immune system, Rory’s mother was unable to enroll him in daycare during his first year of life.

She lost her job and as a result all of her of income. The family was forced to borrow from family friends and take on credit card debts in order to afford their mortgage and other household bills.

While Rory’s mom has been able to return to work as of this past November, she has missed countless paid days to care for Rory and take him to the hospital.

Rory’s family would greatly appreciate any financial assistance that the Barkann Foundation can offer. This support would relieve the burden carried by Rory’s mom as she focuses her energy and attention on helping Rory to recover.

When I told Rory’s Mom that The Barkann Foundation would be supporting their family through the Broad Street Run Hearts for Heroes Team she was in tears.

They have had such a traumatic year and this is such a blessing. They are beyond grateful.

Thank you so much,

Marta Mitchell, Special Instructor, LSW
Early Intervention Provider
Sunrise Therapy & Kutest Kids Inc.