Riley's Story

Riley
Age 12
Heart Transplant

The Children’s Hospital

Riley’s first flight was when he was just 8 hours old. The Flight for Life helicopter flew Riley and his father from Kansas to The Children’s Hospital in Denver, Colo. after doctors noticed declining vital-signs, a grey-blue tint to his skin and a possible heart murmur.

Unknown to Riley’s parents, they had selected one of the leading pediatric heart institutes in the nation for his care. They soon found out the hospital was also filled with people who love children.

“Down to every lab technician that has ever had to poke Riley’s finger, they all have a heart for children,” said Riley’s mom.

After waiting for a heart for four and a half months, Riley had a successful heart transplant. Riley headed home only 10 days after surgery, but his family decided to make a permanent move to Wyoming to be close for follow-up care. Riley will take medication for the rest of his life, but it hasn’t slowed him down.

Today, Riley’s heart is working perfectly and he loves to play baseball, ski and now finds joy when flying with his dad, a licensed pilot.