Heart Warrior Mom Turns Fear into Connection and Advocacy
Although she had a few months and the support of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Cardiology to prepare, Karlee said handing her newborn over to strangers with the hope that they could save his life presented a whole new level of anxiety. Baby Carson was diagnosed with Shone’s complex, which affects how blood flows both into and out of the left side of the heart. Shone’s complex is very rare and accounts for less than 1% of all congenital heart diseases (CHDs). Carson would need open heart surgery at just 6 days old to repair coarctation of the aorta associated with his CHD.
When Karlee and Tyler met with Carson’s surgeon a few days after his birth, they felt reassured by the way Dr. Subhadra Shashiharan (Dr. Subi)(opens in a new tab) talked about taking care of their baby, and that she understood their perspective and fears from a parent’s point of view. The experience with Carson’s care has motivated Karlee to reach out to other families facing CHD and propelled her into advocacy.
“When Carson was first diagnosed, I was scared of all the unknowns and what if’s.” Karlee said. “I would be lying if I said I wasn’t still scared but connecting with other heart families at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta has been such a source of strength for me. Hearing their stories, sharing our own—it’s a reminder that we’re not alone on this journey. That sense of community and hope has been invaluable.”
Carson’s family participated in the Atlanta Congenital Heart Walk in September and raised $600 for CHD research. Karlee said that she wants to help raise awareness not just about CHD itself but the ways in which it can affect all aspects of a child’s development.
Carson is now 8 months old, and he sees Glen Iannucci, MD, at Children’s Cardiology’s Alpharetta clinic. Although the family lives in Munford, Alabama, Karlee said she will always make the extra drive to take Carson to Children’s Cardiology. She knows that, as Carson’s mom, she’s in the best position to know when something’s not right with him, and she appreciates how the team at Children’s Cardiology listens to her.
“Advocating for your kid is a big thing because you are their voice,” Karlee said. “I now share Carson’s story not only to raise awareness about congenital heart disease, but also to inspire faith in other families facing this difficult journey. I hope that through Carson’s story, others can find the strength and hope that has carried us through.”
Related:
Children’s Cardiology Patient Stories
Atlanta Congenital Heart Walk 2025(opens in a new tab)
For more information about Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Cardiology and our pediatric cardiology specialists, click here.
