Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a congenital heart disease (CHD) and requires surgical intervention involving the Norwood and Fontan procedure. Bethan underwent life saving heart surgery at Birmingham Childrens Hospital.

Bethan was born in 2004 with a serious heart condition called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome - only one side of her heart works. The condition is incurable, and until relatively recently, the prognosis was very poor. Surgeons have developed 3-stage surgical techniques that can prolong life, all be it a high-risk procedure on such young babies. She underwent open-heart surgery at the world-renowned Birmingham Children’s Hospital (U.K.) at 3 days old and spent the first 4 months in hospital.

Bethan has experienced open-heart surgery four times, contracted 2 life-threatening bouts of septicaemia, 6 cardiac arrests, several catheters and a diagnosis of Turners Syndrome. 5 arrests occurred one morning in Intensive Care, when the septicaemia took hold. On two occasions it was ‘touch and go’ whether she would survive. In July 2004 she was so poorly that the only option was further high risk open-heart surgery.

My mummy and daddy have written about me in a 100-page book. It tells you all about my first year and my condition called hypoplastic left heart syndrome. I was too young to remember but you can read all about it, and help my mum and dad’s favourite charity - Birmingham Children’s Hospital  . Just click the link: Buy book on the left.

“Powerful and honest - a compelling memoir” - A leading Literary Agent

Fortunately Bethan proved to be a fighter.It’s been an amazing turn around in fortunes. Beth had a second stage operation in late 2004 and the last stage in 2010.This will all help her cope into adulthood. However, there is a likelihood that she will need a heart transplant in the future. Bethan is a happy 21 year old. She is full of life despite the severe disabilities she faces.

We hope you enjoy her site and please buy our book: “Bethan - A year in the life of the baby with half a heart”. All proceeds go to the Hospital and Cotswold Riding for the Disabled, which plays an increasing role in Beth’s enjoyment of life.

We also raise money via Mandy and Bryan’s hobbies - crafting and gardening. Mandy makes crotched teddies, greetings cards and a whole range of other products via her Facebook page: Cosy Hearts Crafts. Bryan receives donated indoor and outdoor plants to sell on to the public for the benefit of our two charities. We have raised over £30,000 since 2004!

September 2025

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