Karlie

During her first month’s checkup, Karlie’s pediatrician detected a heart murmur and referred her to a pediatric cardiologist who diagnosed her with Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD). “Just prior to her first birthday, we were told that Karlie needed heart surgery. This was a surprise as we were originally told she would not need surgery until she was five,” said her parents, Randy and Karen Goya. “Dr. Venu Reddy was very supportive and we were confident that Karlie was in good hands.” Today, Karlie attends Niu Valley Middle School and enjoys basketball, playing the ukulele and singing. Recently, she visited Kapi‘olani’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit where she spent a lot of time as a baby and met some of the nurses who once cared for her. “We are grateful that Kapi‘olani has a program in place for children with congenital heart defects,” said her parents. “Karlie is a survivor because of the great team here at Kapi‘olani!”