Heart Month: Eva's Story
Parents Annie and Robbie have shared their daughter Eva’s story, and how vital their stay in Crossbasket House was whilst she spent time in the children’s hospital in Glasgow. Robbie also gives us an insight into training for this year’s Edinburgh Marathon, as he prepares to give back to Crossbasket House in a meaningful way.
Eva’s Hospital Journey
Annie: Our daughter Eva was born with a congenital heart defect known as AVSD. The original plan was to give her time to grow and repair the defect at 4-6 months. However, at just 6 weeks old, she went into heart failure and was transferred to the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, for respiratory support and surgery to repair the defect.
Unfortunately, there were several serious complications following the surgery, resulting in 98 days in PICU, 89 days on the ventilator, 4 open heart surgeries, 2 neurosurgeries and 14 days on the cardiac ward before we were finally able to bring her home.
Crossbasket House: Our Sanctuary
Annie: During our time in Glasgow, Crossbasket House was our sanctuary, allowing us to stay as close to Eva as possible. We learned about Crossbasket House when Eva’s heart defect was diagnosed antenatally. It was a relief to know that when the time came for Eva to have her operation, we would have somewhere to stay close by with homely amenities.
Robbie: Being able to stay in Crossbasket House was incredibly important. We can’t imagine where we would have been without it. The thought of being far away from her is almost impossible to imagine. We live in Dundee so it would have been an hour and a half away for us.
The staff were brilliant, really polite and helpful. The House provided food and bathroom amenities if needed. The kitchen stations were a great space to unwind and talk to other families. There was a fridge full of water and drinks where we could help ourselves. Next to it was the charity-funded grab and go station, with breakfast foods and nutrition bars - perfect for picking up en route to the hospital!
Eva went through a turbulent time. Things could change quickly at any time. For example, when she had to go back in for an emergency surgery, we were in shock, but knowing we could be by her bed in a matter of minutes was a huge comfort. As heartbreaking as it was, we were always close by to support her.
Annie: Although our time in Crossbasket House was fraught with heartbreak and fear, we had some lovely times, including my 30th birthday, our second wedding anniversary, enjoyed a fish and chip night with other families, visits from loved ones- including our much-missed dog, Nala. We spent our last night in Crossbasket House with Eva, getting to show her the place we were grateful to call home for nearly four months.
Giving Back
Robbie: I’ve always wanted to run a marathon as I stay relatively fit myself. But I’d never had the motivation to actually sign up – until now. Everything Crossbasket House and the hospital did for us left me with no choice; I had to give something back. I’ve never participated in an official race before, although I regularly run 10ks. Training is going well, and I can run 8-10 miles now. Unfortunately, I’m dealing with a knee issue, but I’m hopeful that some physio sessions will help get me back on track!
Without a doubt, the most difficult part will be towards the end, where you have to keep going even though absolutely everything aches. Lactic acid will build up, then the legs stop working! I’m really looking forward to the entire day. It will be gruelling no doubt, but I think the fact that I am running with my oldest friend, Scott, will make it all the more memorable.
Inspired by Robbie? You can go the extra mile for hospital families like Eva’s by joining Team Crossbasket House at the Kiltwalk!
Remember, anyone walking for Crossbasket House can claim a special 50% off discount code.