First-time parenthood brought with it all the normal worries of having a new baby, but after six months with their son Quentin, Melissa and Wayne were starting to consider themselves old pros.  

The couple grew concerned when Quentin did not seem to gain weight as he got older. His pediatrician, a Texas Children’s Pediatric Associates doctor, suspected a heart problem and referred Quentin to Texas Children’s Heart Center.

Quentin was diagnosed with several heart conditions. He had tricuspid atresia and a hole in his heart. Also, the two major vessels that carry blood away from the heart were transposed. Melissa and Wayne were overwhelmed by the diagnoses. 

“We were worried about how we were going to take care of him,” Melissa said.

Taking care of Quentin first meant putting him in the hands of Texas Children’s congenital heart surgery team. Doctors performed open-heart surgery to repair the hole and place a small pacemaker in Quentin’s tiny heart. 

Quentin began to thrive. Today he’s like most toddlers who are learning to talk, and he loves playing outdoors. “I am constantly amazed at the talents of these doctors,” Melissa said. “They really are kind, humble people, and Dr. (Charles) Fraser is one of the most inspirational people I have ever met. He spends his days trying to save children’s lives.”

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