This year, I am riding in the Courage Classic in honor of Rylea, one of the many incredible cardiac patients I had the privilege of caring for in the CICU at Children’s Hospital Colorado. Every day, I witness the strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit of these children + their families as they face some of the toughest challenges with bravery beyond their years. After working in this unit for a little over two years, I continue to be inspired by their courage and the hope they bring to everyone around them. Below is a Rylea's story, shared with permission by her family.
"Rylea was the daughter of Justin and Christine PB. She was the youngest sister of Brittany, Brendan (Bob), Christin (Curt), and Justin Jr.. Rylea’s prenatal diagnosis was DORV (Double Outlet Right Ventricle), D-TGA (Dextro-Transposition of Great Arteries), and Atrial septal defect. Rylea underwent three heart surgeries at C.S. Mott’s Children's Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The first was at 6 days, second at 6 months, and third at 21 months. In August of 2023 she went into heart failure and had her 4th heart surgery at Stead Family Children’s Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa where she was placed on a VAD (ventricular assist device) while she awaited a new heart. On December 19, 2023 she was transferred to Children’s Hospital of Colorado in Aurora, Colorado to continue to await a new heart. On May 19, 2024 at 9:39 PM Rylea passed away from multi-organ failure."
I am dedicating my miles to Rylea, who left a lifelong impression on me and who reminds me of why I do what I do, and I am honored to ride in her name. Throughout her time in the CICU, I was lucky enough to experience Rylea kinking off "Sid", her naughty VAD, when she wanted some attention, throwing a tantrum around bathtime, and how much she detested us waking her up early in the mornings for a 6am assessment or 4am x-ray. Rylea was so loved and cherished and it was evident throughout her last moments.
The funds raised through the Courage Classic directly support the care, research, and programs that make a difference for these kids and their families. Thank you for supporting these incredible little heart warriors and the work we do in the Heart Institute!