Baby Teddy Nelson was born with a congenital heart defect known as hypoplastic left heart syndrome. This condition affects the normal flow of blood through the heart, and Teddy had to undergo open-heart surgery just 15 minutes after his birth.
Despite the devastating news, his parents never lost hope and prayed for the surgery to go as planned. Unfortunately, Teddy suffered a stroke around his second open-heart surgery, and his parents were uncertain about his future. They did not know whether he would be able to smile, and they knew he could experience more health issues.
After 185 days, Teddy treated his parents with the cutest smile, which melted their hearts. His ability to smile was his first major milestone and gave them a glimmer of hope for the future. Teddy’s enchanting smile was captured on video and shared on social media, where thousands of people from all over the world have seen it.
“His sister was in the room; [Teddy] loves to hear her voice and my husband, he has the special touch,” Alexandria explained.
Despite the fact that more surgeries would follow in the future, Teddy is currently doing well and spreading happiness and joy. His determination and fighting spirit have earned him the nickname “feisty.” Although he has only half a heart, his parents say that he produces twice the love.
Theodore’s family hopes he will achieve more milestones and lead a normal life.