Our Miracle Families

Amelia Boxleiter

Born

10/29/2014

Diagnosis

8 Week Preemie, Grade 3 IVH, CLD, BPD, Hydrocephalus, PDA, PFO, & PVS

Amelia’s Story

“Our lives went from being perfectly normal to totally turned upside down in a blink of an eye. Amelia was born 12 weeks early and spent 88 days in the NICU. We will forever be grateful to her team of doctors, nurses, staff for all they did. Without them, we would not have our miracle.”

Kinnick Marks

5/29/2012-9/7/2012

Diagnosis

Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome

Kinnick’s Story

“Before Kinnick was born we dealt with U of I and the cardiology department. Kinnick was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and had two open heart surgeries in a matter of three months after birth. We ‘lived’ at the hospital for over a month and became a second home to us. Unfortunately, Kinnick lost his battle during his second surgery.”

Brecken Dupont

4/13/2015-4/25/2015

Diagnosis

Aortic Stenosis, Pulmonary Stenosis, & Coarctation of the Aorta

Brecken’s Story

“Brecken was born with an unexpected heart condition and transferred from Mercy in Dubuque to the University of Iowa. He spent 6 days in Iowa City where he had exceptional care as they worked over his procedure plan. At 6 days old he was transferred to Lurie’s Children’s in Chicago. Underwent two successful heart procedures and at 12 days of age unexpectedly passed away. U of I gave us 6 of the best days filled with so many memories. Many of our family members were able to meet him during that time. If necessary they could have operated on Brecken but wanted to be sure he had the best care and resources he needed. Never would I have imagined one of the best hospitals to suggest another great place for us. It says so much about the wonderful Doctors that put their egos aside.”