A Story of Perserverance, Thanks and Survival

A Story of Perseverance, Thanks and Survival

Most parents wish the world for their children on their birthday. But what if you were to instead wish for their survival? The David Foster Foundation shares a unique, heartfelt story of Evanne, a two-time heart transplant recipient who has overcome adversity to celebrate a major life milestone.

“We thank the David Foster Foundation from the bottom of all of our hearts,” said Evanne’s mother, Tamara. “Every minute I had and continue to have with Evanne I owe to the David Foster Foundation, plain and simple.” Imagine over 4,000 blood tests, over 24 biopsies, and 2 heart transplants – all overcome by 1 inspirational child. To get an idea of what Evanne had to endure: it was during the Spring of 2004 that Evanne’s mom, Tamara, was informed by her doctor that an ultrasound showed the baby had three very rare heart conditions and would need a heart transplant as soon as she was born. After being rushed to BC Women’s Hospital to meet with top doctors, the best course of action was to conduct a heart transplant. From there, Tamara was sent to Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children to have the baby assessed by their top doctors. It was during this time that Tamara was introduced to the Foundation. Tamara was familiar with David Foster, but not the Foundation and soon discovered that what the Foundation did was nothing short of a miracle. The Foundation provided funding for transportation, accommodations, groceries, car payments, rent and other essential non-medical expenses pre-, during and post-operation. After deliberating between two Toronto hospitals, a birthing plan was made. By the evening of October 1, 2004, Tamara was off to the hospital and at 2:33pm on October 2, 2004, Evanne Rae Fisher was born. Sadly, Evanne had to be immediately taken to another hospital to be tested and put on IV, and eventually intubated. Evanne was holding on, but it was a struggle! After 4 weeks, the doctors decided to try a very risky, very rare open heart transplant surgery to try and keep Evanne alive longer in the hopes a heart would finally become available. After several worrisome hours, the surgery was complete, however they struggled to get Evanne stable. Evanne was sick and struggling hard. Miraculously, Evanne battled on; she became stable and turned the corner. Then on November 9, 2004, the call came in that a transplant was available for Evanne. Everyone was excited that dreams were finally coming true. By the age of 7 years, Evanne had to again have a second heart transplant. This was another test for Evanne which she passed with flying colours!

Evanne celebrating her graduation milestone!

Today, Evanne is thriving and planning for her future. She is currently taking a gap year to travel and relax after she graduated with Honours. It is her goal to become a Child Life Specialist, as she wants to give back and help others after all her personal experiences. “I remember when Evanne was born and how this tiny little baby fought for her life, and to have her turning 18 is so amazing. I remember watching her run her first cross-country race just 8 months after her second heart transplant,” said Hon. Col. Michael Ravenhill, Chief Executive Officer, David Foster Foundation. “Thinking how we have supported Evanne for her entire life and to see her going off to do great things is so moving – this is why we do what do at the Foundation. She inspires me, and I am so proud of everything she has accomplished.” Several celebrities and supporters have already posted video messages to congratulate Evanne on achieving such a big milestone of graduating and turning 18. ‘What a big day this is for Evanne,’ added David Foster in a video message. “We are so proud of you and happy that we can be a part of your journey with such a magical outcome. We love you!”