Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) Program

Patient Stories

Watch a few of the stories that show why the Ventricular Assist Device Program at Cincinnati Children's is a world leader.

Five Pound Fighter

James Baker is likely the smallest child ever to get a VAD, make it to transplant, and then get discharged to home - where a bright future awaits him.

Samantha's Story

When a virus attacked Samantha's heart at 8-years-old, our team used a ventricular assist device to help her recovery.

Susie's Story

Susie Arroyo's LVAD saved her life. Now the Oregon resident with Duchenne muscular dystrophy has her sights set on being a teacher.

A Day in the Life of Tessa

Follow Tessa, a seven-year-old with Cardiomyopathy, and her sister, Ava, as they talk about life with a Ventricular Assist Device.

Ethan's Story

When Ethan Daniel was less than a year old he was diagnosed with restrictive cardiomyopathy. Thanks to an LVAD Ethan was bridged to his transplant.

Camp Joyful Hearts

Camp Joyful Hearts strives to help kids with heart disease overcome these challenges with a support network of kids in similar circumstances.

Meet Our Patients

Meet some of the patients who have traveled from across the country to see the Ventricular Assist Device experts at Cincinnati Children's.

Travale's Story

Travale King received a Syncardia Total Artificial Heart and eventually a transplant. But what you really need to know about Travale: he can dance.

Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) Program