Xander's story

Xander’s heart didn’t form correctly in the womb and this has meant that this little boy has had some of the most complex heart surgery that it is possible to have. Xander had his first surgery at two days old. Just before he turned one he had his first major heart surgery and his first birthday was spent in hospital.

For almost 12 months the most basic activity was exhausting for him and the energy levels required to perform the most basic task was a challenge for him. Xander also displayed signs of post-traumatic stress and anxiety which was evident when he had to see doctors or visit the hospital.

Xander is doing really well since his surgeries two years ago and now has a pacemaker to keep his heart in rhythm. He is a happy, loving, kind, energetic and thriving three year old. He loves all things ‘construction’ but importantly, sees joy in all aspects of life. He has experienced so much pain and suffering but continues living as though nothing is wrong.

Without his shirt on, all of his scars are reminders of his ordeal and they are a symbol of the strength and courage and bravery he showed while fighting for survival.

HeartKids has provided a lifeline to the whole family throughout their journey. They’ve supported by providing advice through their helpline and face-to-face meetings, provided care bags to support the often lengthy and expensive hospital stays and provided Xander with his own heart beads as a visual to keep track of the journey Xander has been on. Each bead signifies a major procedure and brings reminders of what Xander went through and will be something for Xander to treasure when he is older to help him understand the gravity of what he survived.

In 2019 Xander fronted the HeartKids ‘Show Your Heart’ campaign. Brought to life by Initiative the aim was to raise awareness of congenital heart disease, the leading cause of infant death in Australia. The campaign helped raise over $300K in funds for HeartKids.

How UnLtd helps children like Xander:

UnLtd supports HeartKids by funding programs such as the Teen Camp for teenagers with congenital heart disease. UnLtd has also created partnerships between Initiative who for several years have been instrumental in driving the annual HeartKids fundraising campaign “Show Your Heart”; and DDB who are currently working on a brand strategy for HeartKids.

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