Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
This local had a heart transplant at 6 years old + now she’s giving back
Reading time: 3 minutes
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Esmerelda Hernandez had a heart transplant when she was six years old, and she and her family spent time at Children’s of Alabama.
Now, Esmerelda volunteers at Children’s—bringing bright smiles to the patients and their families, just as others did while she was there.
Here’s her story.
Meet Esmerelda Hernandez
In July of 2013, Esmerelda noticed a pain in her chest. Once doctors identified the problem as heart failure, she was transported to Children’s for a heart transplant.
Even during a scary time, Esmerelda and her family felt comforted by the doctors, nurses and volunteers at Children’s.
This is a big reason why she decided to return nearly 13 years later and give back to sick children and their families.
Find more ways to support Children’s of Alabama families like Esmerelda’s during Heart Month.
Bringing smiles to kids + families at Children’s of Alabama
Because she knows how it feels to be cared for as a child in the hospital, Esmerelda wants to do the same for patients now.
“I have a really good relationship with this hospital, and I like to see all my old nurses and doctors. I wanted to do this because of what they’ve done for me.”
Esmerelda Hernandez
Every Thursday, Esmerelda brings art supplies and activities to patients’ rooms and keeps the kiddos company during their stay in the hospital.
“I ask if they need a friend because I know how it feels to be in the hospital for quite some while. I love connecting with them because it reminds me of when I used to be a patient.”
Esmerelda Hernandez
February is National Heart Month
February is National Heart Month, and families of children who need specialized cardiovascular care can turn to the experts at the Pediatric and Congenital Heart Center of Alabama at Children’s.
It’s the largest Pediatric and Congenital Heart Center in the Southeast and provides pediatric cardiac care for thousands of patients a year.
Children’s of Alabama staff and volunteers make the most of this month—lighting the outside of the building and bringing Valentine’s Day cards to kiddos.
“Come to Children’s. It’s a wonderful hospital for everyone. It’s very friendly, the doctors and nurses are trustworthy and the staff are kind. They do good with connecting with parents whose kids are in need.”
Esmerelda Hernandez
Find more ways to support Children’s of Alabama families during Heart Month.
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