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Henderson W.

Healing Henderson's Heart: A Story of Courage

Ascension Sacred Heart has been there for families for many generations. Amelia Woods’ story is no exception. In 2008 at the age of 13, Amelia received a spinal fusion to correct her severe scoliosis under the care of Dr. Stanton from Sacred Heart Hospital’s pediatric orthopedic specialty. Many years later and now as an adult with a growing family, Amelia still relies on Ascension Sacred Heart for their reliable care, especially for her oldest son, Henderson.

When Amelia was 25 weeks pregnant with Henderson, tests detected a critical congenital heart defect in Henderson. Due to the severity of Baby Henderson’s condition, Amelia and her husband decided it would be best for Amelia to deliver at a hospital in Atlanta. Henderson was born on July 7, 2020 and shortly after birth, he underwent open heart surgery.

Upon returning home to Pensacola, Henderson has been under the care and monitoring of Dr. Theresa Roca, pediatric cardiologist at Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital. Amelia says that Dr. Roca’s guidance and encouragement has been a blessing to her family from day one.

Today, at nearly four years old, Henderson is doing well and is thriving.