Ruby's Story
Ruby began life as a healthy baby, but at six months developed a fever during a family beach trip. The next morning, her local pediatrician detected a heart murmur and referred Ruby and her family to Johns Hopkins Children's Center, where a cardiologist found a hole in her heart, a type of congenital defect known as ventricular septal defect (VSD).
Her parents were reassured that Ruby would be able to live normally, but the defect would need to be monitored and fixing it with surgery wouldn’t be possible until she reached 35 pounds.
In June 2020, at four years old, Ruby reached the required weight, and Ruby's parents scheduled open-heart surgery for her in August of 2020.
The procedure, which lasted three hours, was a success. After three nights of recovery, Ruby began to heal.
While Ruby recovered, the family was impressed with the continued care and support she received, particularly from the Child Life department, which distracted her with activities and games. But it was a gifted nightgown from Child Life featuring characters from the movie Frozen that became the cherished item during her recovery.
After a short hospital stay, Ruby returned home, proudly showing her scar to family and friends. She is now thriving, playing sports and loving school. In gratitude, Ruby's family has raised over $5,000 for Johns Hopkins Children’s Center through lemonade stands. Though the money raised can be used as needed, Ruby has her preference: Frozen nightgowns for kids staying at the hospital.