Carter Harrison has come such a long way since his days in the NICU of the Studer Family Children’s Hospital. After undergoing his first heart surgery at only 28 days old, Carter was later diagnosed with Takenouchi-Kosaki Syndrome – a condition so rare his case could only be compared with a handful of others worldwide.

Now nearly six years old, this precious little boy has defied all odds. Despite the many challenges that accompany his syndrome, his family refuses to let him be defined by it. They feel blessed to be treated by specialists at Sacred Heart who make his care so personal.

“This past year has been one of the best years of Carter’s life,” says his mother, Meredith. “He has stayed well and healthy and just graduated kindergarten.”

Carter was not expected to be able to walk or talk, but he’s excelling at both, overcoming extra medical equipment and communicating at a level that surprises his parents and doctors. In speech therapy, he sings and practices sign language while using a tablet to help him express himself. He’s also a big brother now.

“We can’t wait for him to be able to understand not only what he’s gone through, but also the impact he’s had on others,” his mom says. “Before his diagnosis, we didn’t realize the medical conditions and developmental delays he would have. The outpouring of love from the doctors and nurses and our community has been amazing.”

“We are a family of faith … we really do believe there is a bigger purpose in all of this.” Meredith says. “Despite what Carter has gone through, he can show the community what it means to overcome.”