Born Brave, Becoming Strong
My name is Eden Baldwin, and today I am almost thirteen years old. My life has had interruptions, procedures, setbacks, and delays — but I am still here. I am telling my story. And I am getting ready to enjoy life fully.
I was born on 15 September 2011 at Life Roseacres Hospital. I was full-term, with no known medical concerns. But soon after birth, something wasn’t right. I struggled to feed, and parts of my tiny body began turning pale blue. My paediatrician, Dr Thwala, acted quickly, placing me in an incubator with oxygen and calling in a paediatric cardiologist, Dr Sinyangwe.
That’s when my family learned I had Pulmonary Atresia with a Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) — a serious congenital heart condition affecting blood flow to my lungs.
I was stabilised on medication while waiting for a bed at Sunninghill Hospital. An airlift was considered, but my oxygen levels were too low. Ten days later, I was transported by ambulance for my first procedure — a stent placement — performed by Prof. Kinsley and Dr E. Schurmann.
Growing Up with a Brave Heart
My first year was filled with hospital visits, physiotherapy to strengthen my lungs, immune-boosting injections, and regular cardiology check-ups. At one year old, I underwent my second procedure with the same theatre team. After that, I bounced back beautifully. Life felt lighter. I even won a baby competition that my Grandad entered me into — proof that joy always finds a way.
Eleven years later, just after turning twelve, I faced my most recent procedure. This time, I understood everything. I was scared — but I wanted everyone to believe I was brave. I focused on staying strong.
I was admitted on a Sunday. Monday was surgery. Six days later, I left CTICU and moved to the general ward before going home. The hardest part was missing my parents during those short visiting hours. Through it all, my special teddy, Lilac, stayed by my side — just as she did during my earlier surgeries.
Dr E. Schurmann and Dr Naidoo, my anaesthetist, made me feel safe and comfortable. I am still amazed that the same valve lasted eleven years before needing intervention.
Finding heartKIDS SA has inspired me deeply. I want other children living with congenital heart disease to know they are not alone. Our journeys may look different, but we are strong in ways the world cannot always see.
Here is a poem I wrote to share that message:
I am young, I am free,
I need love, to be me.
The Lord has helped me through
These dark and dreadful days.
All I ask for is kindness,
Compassion, care and love.
All the stars are shining bright —
So smile, you are not alone.
And this is my story so far.
Eden Baldwin
