Newborn Twins Face Heartbreaking Struggle: Family Fights for Donor Heart

In early May 2025, the lives of Britini and JC Apuada were forever changed when their newborn son Oliver went into cardiac arrest. The family, who had just enjoyed three perfect weeks at home with their twins Oliver and Eloise, was suddenly thrust into a nightmare.

Oliver was rushed to the Stollery Children's Hospital in Edmonton, where he remains in the pediatric cardiac intensive care unit. Over the past three months, the tiny baby boy has experienced six episodes of cardiac arrest, leaving his parents Britini and JC devastated and searching for answers. "It's just your worst nightmare as a parent is to have your child in that situation," Britini said.

At just two months old, Oliver underwent open-heart surgery and doctors implanted a mechanical pump to keep him alive until a heart donor can be found. However, the wait times for a donor heart can vary greatly, from just days to up to three years. "In order for Oliver to get better, there would have to be another family out there that would have to suffer much worse than we already have," Britini acknowledged, understanding the gravity of their situation.

Despite the uncertainty and emotional toll, the Apuada family remains hopeful that Oliver will receive the life-saving transplant he needs. They are grateful for the support of the Stollery Children's Hospital Foundation and its donors, whose contributions have made Oliver's care possible. As they navigate this unimaginable challenge, the family is focused on spending as much time as possible with their son, determined to bring him home soon.