Something Squirrelly this Way Comes

Little Sydney was born September 8, 2009 weighing in at 3lbs, 9oz. She's the beloved daughter of two friends from college. Her dad was my roommate, senior year.

During an early ultrasound, Sydney was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect (Tetralogy of Fallot with Absent Pulmonary Valve). The doctors also determined that, as is common with Tets, Sydney had DiGeorge Syndrome.

To translate the medical speak, Sydney's pulmonary valve does not function properly. This has caused her pulmonary artery to grow to an enormous size. The artery is compressing most of her left lung making it difficult to keep her oxygenated properly.

The doctors told her folks, the day Sydney was born, to enjoy their time with her. They didn't think she'd last the night. Sydney proved them wrong. She was a fighter. She beat the odds time and time again.

But she was so little, not quite five pounds, and she needed to rest. Little Sydney passed away today at 5:22 pm, central time. She was 44 days old.

You are loved Sydney. By more people than you could ever believe. You will be missed. Rest in peace, dear heart.