Heart Transplant Brings New Hope for Hays Teen
After dealing with a rare heart condition her entire life, 16-year-old Kaylee Stuart is now embracing the prospect of living without limitations.
Kaylee, daughter of Relaford and Krista Stuart from Hays, was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome — a congenital heart defect that affects the left side of the heart, making it difficult to pump blood effectively. Consequently, the right side has to work overtime to circulate blood throughout her body.
Recently, Relaford shared that Kaylee underwent a heart transplant at Children’s Mercy in Kansas City. Initially, they were told to expect a long wait of up to two years after she joined the transplant list on April 6.
However, just over six weeks later, the family received an unexpected call about a match. “My wife was on the phone, tears in her eyes,” Relaford recalled. Initially fearing bad news, he was overwhelmed with joy when he realized Kaylee had been offered a new heart. “It was a whirlwind of emotions,” he said, acknowledging the mix of relief and anxiety they felt.
That night, they packed their bags and set out, but not before Kaylee insisted on saying goodbye to her friends, which ended up being a heartfelt farewell with several of them. They arrived in Kansas City around 1:30 a.m. the following morning.
Kaylee wished to express her feelings since she wasn’t sure what the outcome would be. “I just wanted to tell my friends goodbye because I didn’t know if this could be the last time,” she said.
The surgery took place around noon on May 14, and Kaylee emerged from it on May 15. At first, doctors thought she might require both a heart and liver transplant, but during the procedure, they determined that only the heart was necessary. There’s a possibility her liver and kidneys could improve with better blood flow now.
“The liver is looking good, and her kidneys have rebounded,” Relaford mentioned, noting that while there’s always a chance for further surgeries in the future, they’re hopeful that won’t be necessary.
Kaylee’s recovery has progressed faster than expected, and she might return home by early August. This timing would allow her to start her junior year at Hays High School.
As of May 28, biopsies revealed no signs of tissue rejection, and ongoing tests have shown encouraging results. “Her new heart is still adjusting, but everything looks good so far,” Relaford reported.
A GoFundMe has been created to support Kaylee’s recovery, and it has raised nearly $28,000. The fundraiser highlighted her early life, which included multiple surgeries during her first two years.
Relaford expressed deep gratitude for the support they’ve received. He acknowledged, “We’re very fortunate and thankful for everyone’s thoughts and prayers.” Even though Kaylee didn’t end up needing a liver transplant, he noted that it would’ve come from the same donor.
While they won’t know the donor’s identity due to privacy rules, the family has expressed a desire to meet them. “We hope to connect with them someday,” he added.
After her surgery, Kaylee mentioned, “I feel like I’m two different people now,” illustrating her sense of transition and new beginnings.
Once she’s fully recovered, the family hopes to go on a Make-A-Wish trip that was approved before her transplant, although travel will be limited for about a year.
Relaford mentioned they might aim for next summer for the trip, right before her senior year, depending on how her recovery goes. Beyond that, Kaylee is eager to return home, reconnect with friends, and enjoy the comfort of her own bed.
As her heart condition worsened over the years, it started to limit her daily activities, leaving her easily fatigued and discouraged in sports. Yet, she actively participated in activities like cheerleading and gymnastics, fueled by a desire to do more.
With interests in beauty and nail technology, Kaylee is also looking forward to college, possibly attending schools in Kansas or even Texas.
Relaford’s advice to others facing similar challenges is to remain hopeful and lean on family and friends for support. “Trust the process, and never give up,” he advised, emphasizing the kindness that exists in the world.
For updates on Kaylee’s recovery, you can follow her journey online.
