COTA for Cameron Michael

Our Story

Meet Cameron, our precious miracle baby. Cameron’s story may come as a shock to most people because those who have met Cameron briefly would never know he was on the list awaiting Heart Transplant. Our team of doctors always tells us this process “takes a village” so it is important to share our story. 

Cameron was diagnosed prenatally with Genetic Dilated Cardiomyopathy, a muscle disease that changes the structure and function of the heart making it weaker and harder to pump blood. After weeks of close surveillance, frequent ultrasounds, and being told Cameron’s prognosis was unknown, the decision was made by a team of physicians at Strong Memorial hospital for induction at 37 weeks. 

Cameron surprised everyone from his first breath and did better than expected. Cam spent two weeks in PCICU and was sent home on a medication regimen to improve his heart function. We were then referred to UPMC Children’s Hospital to a special team of doctors that specialize in Cardiomyopathy. After several trips to Pittsburgh and a series of tests, it was determined by Cameron’s team of doctors that he would need to be listed for a heart transplant. Cameron has properties of both Dilated and Restrictive Cardiomyopathy and is currently in what is known as “well compensated heart failure.” Our team of doctors explained that it is important to list Cameron now to avoid damage to his other organs, specifically his lungs. If and when symptoms arise from the ongoing high pressure and poor function of his heart – Cameron’s prognosis of being a successful transplant candidate could dramatically change. 

Many of our friends and family have been asking for ways that they can help our family during this time- please consider donating to COTA for Cameron Michael as a way to do just that. 100% of the donations will benefit COTA in honor of Cameron to assist with transplant-related expenses. Any amount truly makes a difference. If you are unable to make a financial contribution, we are asking for prayers for Cameron and our family during this difficult time.

Thank you to everyone who has rallied around us and sent positive words and prayers during this time. We are truly grateful and appreciate you all. 

Love you all!

The Christophers and The Stewarts

The Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) helps children and young adults who need a life-saving transplant by providing fundraising assistance and family support. COTA is the nation’s only fundraising organization solely dedicated to raising life-saving dollars in honor of transplant-needy children and young adults. 100% of each contribution made to COTA in honor of our patients helps meet transplant-related expenses. COTA’s services are free to our families, and gifts to COTA are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.