Since our last update, Ollie has continued to show us what true resilience looks like.

It’s been six weeks since his chest was officially closed following his hybrid VAD surgery—and what a six weeks it’s been! Ollie is now off oxygen support, has far fewer tubes and wires, and is adapting beautifully to his Ventricular Assist Device (VAD). Thanks to this device, his body is growing stronger every day while we continue to wait for the right heart.

Normal Baby Things…

In these weeks, Ollie has hit new milestones that fill our hearts with joy. He’s started doing tummy time and showing off his strength. He gives us big smiles every day, loves when mama sings to him, and lights up when daddy teaches him new words and body movements.

These quiet, everyday moments are the ones we treasure most. They remind us that despite the beeping monitors and hospital routines, Ollie is still just a sweet, growing baby discovering the world.

The “Dry Run” Transplant

One of the hardest moments came when we received a potential heart offer at just 8 weeks. This is incredibly early for an offer to come through, so we were very surprised. But we were also so excited that Ollie’s wait might be over!

Everything was set. Ollie was prepped. We were on alert, and the surgical team was ready. But just 24 hours before the scheduled transplant as they started running their standard pre-op battery of tests…Ollie tested positive for strep.

Because transplant requires immediate immune suppression, any infection—no matter how small—is a serious risk. The team made the difficult decision to pass on the heart in order to keep Ollie safe.

While that moment was deeply disappointing (ok, that may be an understatement) it reminded us just how delicate and miraculous this process is. And how critical your support is as we continue to wait.

The Silver Linings

The good news is: Ollie is stable. He’s gaining weight, growing stronger, and showing more personality by the day. He loves books, music, and snuggles. He loves it when daddy uses silly voices or when mommy makes up new songs. And he continues to amaze his care team with his tenacity.

His continued growth will only help support him (and open up his donor pool) when the right heart comes his way. We continue to lean on God and trust that He is lining all things up for Ollie’s ultimate good.

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:28

Our Endless Gratitude

We’re so grateful for your prayers, encouragement, and donations through COTA. You are part of Ollie’s story. You’re helping us give him the brightest possible future—and we hold onto hope that the right heart will come at the right time.

And we can only pray that his life and his story will inspire all of you and showcase the awesomeness and glory of Jesus who holds Ollie in His hands – the safest place any of us could ever be.

With love and gratitude,

— The Payton Family