I thought I was just tired because of my kids – I was shocked when I was diagnosed with a rare condition
A MUM who started suffering from acute tiredness was diagnosed with a rare congenital condition.
Vicky Waite, 43, started feeling out of breath after routine activities such as climbing the stairs or cleaning the house.
The mum-of-two was later diagnosed with Scimitar Syndrome, a rare congenital condition in which a vein from the right lung is abnormally connected to the heart.
Emma Clements, 29, from Wetherby, had the same condition as Vicky. Surgeons at Leeds Children’s Hospital performed scimitar syndrome repairs on the women using a trailblazing surgical procedure.
Speaking to Leeds Live, Vicky said: “It was a bit unnerving and scary but I had confidence in Mr Pelella and it was really reassuring that Mr Lugones could be there to supervise the operation.
“It wasn’t like meeting two surgeons, it was like making two new friends.
“I’m looking forward to being able to go to the beach, play football with my kids without getting out of breath, just do normal things without having to take a million breaks.”
Speaking after her surgery, Emma said: “I can’t thank Dr Pelella and his colleagues enough for being so committed and finding the best outcome for me.
“Despite the procedure being so new he made me feel so relaxed, he was there every day checking I was OK.
“Before surgery my heart might not have been strong enough to cope with a pregnancy. Our prospects for starting a family are now so much more positive – thanks to this procedure.”
Emma and her fiancé who postponed their wedding now plan to get married in 2025.
Colin Holton, clinical director at Leeds Children’s Hospital, said: “I’m extremely proud of the team who have brought this innovative procedure to Leeds in a UK first.
“Our Congenital Cardiac Team are well known for leading the field and pushing the boundaries when it comes to surgical interventions.
“It’s great to know children and adults have a world class service on their doorstep here in Leeds.”