Some journeys begin quietly, long before the first breath is taken. Bertie’s journey began in a hospital room, during what should have been a joyful milestone—a routine 20-week pregnancy scan. For his parents, James and his partner, that moment marked the start of a life-changing road filled with fear, courage, and extraordinary hope.

What they learned that day would redefine their understanding of love, resilience, and the strength of a tiny heart fighting against impossible odds.

A Life-Changing Diagnosis Before Birth

In the summer of 2019, James and his partner were overjoyed to discover they were expecting their first child. Like many parents-to-be, they dreamed of nursery colors, first cuddles, and a healthy future. But during the 20-week anatomy scan, something felt wrong.

The sonographer struggled to get a clear view of the baby’s heart. A follow-up appointment with a specialist soon confirmed their worst fears.

Their unborn son was diagnosed with Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA)—a rare and life-threatening congenital heart defect in which the two main arteries leaving the heart are reversed. This meant oxygen-rich blood could not circulate properly throughout the body.

As if that weren’t enough, doctors also discovered a Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)—a hole between the heart’s lower chambers—adding another layer of complexity to an already critical condition.

The diagnosis was devastating. Doctors explained that Bertie would need immediate medical intervention after birth, including major heart surgery, to survive. Nothing could fully prepare James and his partner for the fear that followed—but they made one promise: they would fight for their son with everything they had.

A Fragile Beginning and a Race Against Time

On March 11th, 2020, Bertie entered the world four weeks early at Chelsea & Westminster Hospital. There was no moment to rest or recover. Within minutes of his birth, the medical team sprang into action.

Bertie was rushed to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where doctors attempted a balloon atrial septostomy, a temporary procedure designed to help oxygen-poor and oxygen-rich blood mix inside his heart. The first attempt failed.

Just hours old, Bertie was transferred urgently to Royal Brompton Hospital, where the procedure was successfully completed later that evening.

For his parents, those early hours were a blur of fear and helplessness. They could not hold their newborn son. They could only watch as machines breathed for him and doctors fought to keep him alive.

Yet even then, Bertie showed remarkable strength. Against the odds, he held on.

Major Heart Surgery in the Shadow of a Pandemic

At just three weeks old, Bertie faced his greatest challenge yet—open-heart surgery.

He underwent the Norwood Procedure, a complex and high-risk operation aimed at correcting the TGA and closing the VSD. Originally scheduled at Royal Brompton Hospital, the surgery was moved to Evelina London Children’s Hospital due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The world was already filled with uncertainty, but for James and his partner, the fear was intensely personal. Pandemic restrictions meant they couldn’t be together during the operation.

James carried Bertie to the operating theatre and kissed his son goodbye, unsure if he would ever get the chance again.

The surgery lasted ten agonizing hours.

When the call finally came, it brought tears of relief—the operation had been successful. Bertie had survived.

A Difficult Recovery and Moments of Despair

Bertie was transferred to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), heavily sedated and surrounded by tubes and monitors. While the surgery itself was a success, recovery was far from easy.

He developed heart rhythm abnormalities, requiring additional medical intervention. Days blurred into sleepless nights filled with worry and waiting.

After six days in intensive care, Bertie was moved to the ward—but hope was short-lived. Within two nights, his condition deteriorated again. At one point, his parents were told to prepare for the worst.

And yet, Bertie fought on.

A week after surgery, against all expectations, Bertie was finally discharged from the hospital. Taking him home felt surreal—a victory that once seemed impossible.

Learning to Live with Caution and Gratitude

Life after surgery brought new challenges. Bertie required ongoing monitoring, medications, and frequent hospital visits. The COVID-19 pandemic meant strict shielding at home to protect his fragile heart.

Despite the fear, his parents cherished every moment. Each smile felt like a miracle. Each breath was a gift.

As Bertie approached his first birthday, James and his partner reflected on how far they had come—from devastating diagnosis to survival. Their son’s strength had reshaped their lives forever.

The Lifeline of Support: Tiny Tickers

Throughout their journey, one source of comfort stood out—Tiny Tickers, a charity dedicated to supporting families affected by congenital heart defects.

Tiny Tickers provided vital information, emotional support, and reassurance during the most overwhelming moments. For James and his partner, the charity offered more than guidance—it offered hope.

Inspired by their experience, James is now planning to run the London Marathon to raise funds for Tiny Tickers, determined to give back to the community that helped carry them through their darkest days.

A Future Built on Hope and Strength

Bertie’s journey is not over. He will continue to require lifelong monitoring and may face further surgeries. But today, his future is filled with possibility.

He is a living testament to modern medicine, unwavering parental love, and the resilience of the human spirit. Each day he grows stronger, reminding everyone around him that even the smallest hearts can carry unimaginable courage.

Bertie’s story is not just about survival—it is about hope. About family. About a little boy who refused to give up.

Every day with Bertie is a victory. And his journey continues to inspire all who hear it.