When Brennan, 5, was born nine weeks prematurely, he had serious heart complications, including a constriction of the aorta.  The condition can cause high blood pressure and, potentially, congestive heart failure.  He weighed just 2 pounds, 7 ounces at birth. 

In the neonatal intensive care unit, Brennan was fed through a tube.  After two weeks of monitoring his blood pressure, doctors decided to repair his aorta.

About seven weeks after his birth, Brennan had heart surgery.  Because he was so small, surgeons had to clamp his aorta.  The procedure damaged his spinal cord, leaving Brennan paralyzed from the waist down. 

Tremendous Progress
Soon afterward, Brennan’s parents, Rhonda and Jeff, brought their son to Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare.  Over the years, Brennan has been seen at Gillette for his hips, spine (scoliosis), physical therapy and assistive technology. 

Rhonda says that, with the help of physicians and specialists at Gillette, Brennan has made tremendous progress.  “At first, his speech was quite delayed,” she explains.  “Now, he talks nonstop.” 

Rhonda adds that the family is encouraged that Brennan is gradually regaining some sensation in his feet.  “As a baby, he could wiggle a toe,” she says.  “Today, he’s able to move both feet and legs.”

A Real Go-Getter
Rhonda says that Brennan is an active and energetic little boy who goes a mile a minute.  “He’s learned how to crawl, has his own wheelchair and is remarkably independent,” she notes. “Through it all, Brennan has never asked why this happened to him.  He’s a great kid, who doesn’t let anything stop him.”

Listen to Brennan's Story Here

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