Country Singer Rory Feek’s Daughter to Undergo Heart Surgery

Rory Feek, the country musician, announced that his 12-year-old daughter, Indiana, is scheduled for open heart surgery on Wednesday morning in Austin, Texas.

This operation aims to address a ventricular septal defect—a small hole in her heart present since birth. Feek shared this information via his substack, noting that about half of infants born with Down syndrome face heart-related challenges. After Indiana’s birth, doctors had suggested that the hole might close on its own over time.

However, as Feek pointed out, that hasn’t happened for Indiana.

“I don’t want the surgery, Papa,” she reportedly told him, tears in her eyes.

As he comforted her, she expressed her wish for a miracle.

“We are praying for that miracle,” Feek wrote.

He acknowledged that open heart surgery was a possible outcome they had always considered, and a recent appointment in January solidified the need for it sooner rather than later.

He described Indiana as healthy and joyful, noting that while she sometimes tires quickly during play, overall her health has been good with no visible concerns.

According to her cardiologist, her condition isn’t currently life-threatening, but it poses risks to her quality of life and longevity if left untreated.

“And so here we are,” Feek commented. “We’re preparing for what will be challenging weeks and months for Indiana. It’s not ideal, but we are incredibly grateful for a skilled surgical team and the support of friends and family who are praying for her.”

He reflected on how tough it has been to help Indiana emotionally prepare for the surgery, acknowledging the challenge it presents for all of them, especially as a father watching his daughter face such hardship.

“But I believe it will ultimately make her life better,” he added.

Before deciding on Dell Children’s Medical Center for the surgery, Feek visited two other children’s hospitals. Indiana is expected to spend around ten days in the hospital and will need six to eight weeks for recovery at home afterward.

In the lead-up to surgery, Feek has made it a point to fill their time with love and fun activities, creating memorable moments as they brace for what’s to come.

“These past weeks have been filled with much prayer as Indy understands that miracles are possible, and that’s what she’s been focusing on. We’ve all been praying,” he stated. “On Sunday morning at church, over a thousand people prayed for her.”

The surgery is set for Wednesday at 6 AM, and it’s anticipated to last between six and seven hours, with a week in Intensive Care following the procedure.

“Lord, bless Indy’s sweet, precious heart, and be with her during the trying days ahead,” Feek concluded.

Feek, known for his songwriting and performances, won a Grammy for Best Roots Gospel Album in 2017.