Every month, we highlight a child so you can learn about the wonderful children we help in our community. Along with Valentine’s Day, February also marks American Heart Month to raise awareness about heart disease and heart defects. Meet one of our exceptional children, Sefi!

Sefi is a sweet and resilient 2 year old born with congenital heart defects. She was diagnosed with a complete atrioventricular septal defect and hypoplastic/coarctation of the aortic arch. She had her first surgery at 1 week old and her extensive AVSD repair at 6 months old. She has endured many complications throughout her heart repair journey, including extended hospital stays and feeding difficulties requiring a GJ feeding tube. Next month, she is going back to Children’s Hospital LA for her third heart surgery to repair two leaking valves. 

Despite all the obstacles Sefi has overcome, she has never stopped smiling. She continues to be an absolute joy and bright light for her family. Her spunky personality comes out when she is with her two big sisters, requesting songs, games, and tea parties. Sefi loves music, giving high fives, being ‘up,’ tasting new foods, and enjoys watching Bluey and Moana!

Jack’s Helping Hand is honored to have supported Sefi and her family since the beginning of her medical journey with travel assistance to appointments, surgeries, and in-patient stays at CHLA. Sefi’s resilience and positivity inspire us, and we will continue to lend a hand every step of the way!