One-year-old Sarah from the UK was diagnosed with complete Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD) and Down’s Syndrome at birth. Babies with this condition are more likely to suffer congestive cardiac failure in the first few months of life. Without surgery, many of these patients die.

Sarah’s parents sought advice and recommendations on the most effective treatments that were available for their daughter and contacted Further for help. We obtained a second medical opinion to confirm the diagnosis and identify where Sarah would receive the best healthcare. A paediatric cardiac surgery specialist analysed the case and recommended complete atrioventricular septal defect repair surgery. As Sarah was covered under the international plan, she was eligible to undergo the treatment with all costs and arrangements taken care of by Further.

Further worked closely with Sarah’s parents to determine the most appropriate surgeon for the operation. Our team put everything in place to ensure as smooth a trip as possible for the family. We made all the arrangements from the hospital admissions to the travel to New York and hotel bookings. This left Sarah’s parents free to focus on their daughter’s recovery. Baby Sarah underwent atrioventricular canal repair surgery which was followed by several follow-up appointments arranged by our staff. These post-surgery checks were essential to ensure she was making good progress. After a month, baby Sarah returned to the UK. She is now doing well and growing stronger every day.