INDIANAPOLIS — Clapping and cheers filled the halls of an Indianapolis hospital Monday as a child was released after waiting almost two years for a heart transplant.
Ten-year-old Ava Graham was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a rare birth defect that affects blood flow in the heart.
She arrived at Riley Hospital for Children in April 2022 as a second-grader. While in the hospital, Ava celebrated two birthdays, multiple holidays and completed two years of school while waiting for her new heart.
High levels of antibodies in Ava's blood made it hard to find a match.
But on Monday, doctors, nurses and other team members lined up the halls to cheer for Ava as she left the hospital with a new heart.
Ava said she is looking forward to the simple things people often take for granted.
"I'm excited to see my bedroom again," Ava said with a smile.
