Update from the Ham’s on day 1
It has been a day with ups and downs. The medical team is addressing an antibiotic-resistant bacteria, while her new heart continues to grow stronger and her body makes big adjustments to accept the transplant. We know struggles are a part of the journey. Your cards and well wishes are pouring in and we are enjoying reading them to Kya as we explain how we are connected to you all. It is a marvelous thing to experience so much love and care.
Please keep those healing vibes and prayers coming our way. There is much more to overcome.

Nothing can truly prepare you for a moment like this, but we’re holding onto gratitude and hope. She’s in a lot of pain, but she is making great progress. They’re even getting her up to walk today.

She’s experiencing a lot of pain and fatigue, but surrounded by excellent care. They’ve already got her up and taking steps which is no small feat when you’re tethered to IV medications, drains, and enough tubing they call it “medical spaghetti”. Kya’s attitude? “Let’s do it.” We played Eye of the Tiger as she took her walk, because of course we did! There is tiger inside her, fighting hard.

Please continue your prayers. There are some concerns regarding treatment resistant bacteria they are working to resolve.

These are photos of Kya’s heart compared to a healthy heart (not identical views, but you get the idea). Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is a progressive disease where heart muscle is replaced by fibrous scar tissue and fatty deposits. This weakens the heart’s structure and electrical signals, leading to heart failure.