From the moment of birth Finley required medication to keep his patent ductus arteriosus open, as this vessel was the only route providing blood flow to his lungs. At only four days old he underwent a three-hour procedure to place two ductal stents. Doctors explained that he would need to reach a healthy weight of six kilograms before his full open-heart repair could take place.

Weight gain proved especially difficult because his heart was working overtime. Then, at just 14 weeks old, a sudden viral lung infection caused his oxygen levels to crash dramatically, forcing an emergency six-hour open-heart surgery. His parents kept meticulous records of every feed, monitored his saturations around the clock and prayed through every frightening moment.

Against all expectations Finley reached every milestone early and came through surgery stronger than anyone had dared hope. The terrifying early days did not break his parents but instead forged a strength they never knew they possessed.

The sleepless nights, constant monitoring and overwhelming fear have become love letters from a boy who fought harder than anyone expected. Finley’s family emerged from the impossible as parents who helped their miracle not only survive but truly thrive.