Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1259963
SiG MT 42 In September 2018, Zach and Leigh Sturges of Bozeman were ready to take their twin babies, Sabrina and Freya, home from Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital. ough premature, they seemed otherwise healthy. An echocardiogram right before discharge revealed an extreme narrowing of the main blood vessel to Sabrina's heart—an "aortic coartation." e congenital defect would have put her life in danger, according to Dr. Ruggerie. "Another three days to a week and she would have been showing clear signs of congestive heart failure." A longtime partner of the Bozeman pediatrics team, Ruggerie recommended the Sturgeses schedule immediate treatment at a specialized pediatric cardiology center. He was confident in Seale Children's and Dr. Jonathan Chen, who removed the narrow section of Sabrina's aorta. Follow-up appointments with Ruggerie showed Sabrina's heart was normal. "Bina, as we call her, is doing as well as any other kid who didn't start out life with a big surgery," says Leigh. "Today, she's smart, hilarious, musical, and loving; she's never met a stranger and will gladly snuggle with anyone." Leigh recalls her experience with Dr. Ruggerie, "He took a work break from his travels, came in, sat down with us, drew pictures, and advised us on next steps. Nowadays, each time we see him in clinic [every six months], I'm reminded of that moment. I feel like we're in good hands, and that is a priceless feeling when you're talking about the health of your child." CLOSE CALL FOR BOZEMAN BABY Twin babies Bina (left) and Freya Sturges. Bina's mom, Leigh Sturges, describes Bina as a toddler: "She still has the same fiery personality that bellies her small size." Supplied Photo Supplied Photo