Five-year-old Hemi Andrews has faced extraordinary challenges since birth, living with a serious congenital heart defect known as hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Despite undergoing six open-heart surgeries and grappling with numerous complications, Hemi’s spirit shines brightly, buoyed by the unwavering support of his family. His story of resilience and courage has captured the hearts of many, especially during the upcoming Telethon 2025 event.
Hemi was born on March 20, 2020, the day borders closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, isolating his family during a tumultuous time. His mother, Brooke English, recalls the difficult diagnosis that prompted a life-changing relocation from Perth to Brisbane for specialized medical care. “We were given the option of terminating the pregnancy, but we decided to proceed with the surgeries to try and save his life,” Brooke explained.
The family’s determination led them to fight alongside Hemi, who has faced numerous medical interventions, including a ten-hour Sano shunt procedure just days after birth. This complex surgery aimed to create a pathway for blood to flow to the lungs for oxygen, a critical step for his survival. Despite the risks, Hemi emerged from surgery, but his journey was far from over.
During his time in Brisbane, the family encountered severe setbacks, including complications such as pulmonary hypertension and heart failure at just five months old. Brooke vividly remembers the moment they were told to prepare for end-of-life care. “We were told there was nothing more that we can do,” she recalled. Yet, Hemi’s resilience began to shine through, as he showed signs of improvement upon returning to Perth, surrounded by the love of family and friends.
In September 2021, Hemi underwent a significant surgery at Perth Children’s Hospital, known as a bidirectional cavo-pulmonary connection, marking a major milestone for the family. “I truly think that coming back to Perth is the reason Hemi was able to get to the surgery we were told he would never have,” Brooke said.
As Hemi approaches his fifth birthday, he continues to inspire those around him. His latest surgery, the Fontan completion, took place shortly after his birthday, solidifying his status as a fighter. He now takes medication three times a day to manage his health, yet he remains an active and joyful child, attending kindergarten at Ellenbrook Primary School and playing with his sisters.
During a recent visit, Hemi proudly displayed a special gift from the HeartKids foundation, a charity that supports families affected by childhood heart disease. His red drawstring bag, filled with 266 beads representing various surgeries and procedures, serves as a tangible reminder of his incredible journey. “The HeartKids Foundation brings hope, connection, and support when it’s needed most,” Brooke noted.
The Andrews family has learned to navigate the uncertainties of Hemi’s condition with optimism. Brooke expressed her deep gratitude for the support they have received from organizations like Telethon, which plays a crucial role in funding research and care for children like Hemi. “We are so thankful to Telethon, to HeartKids, to the surgeons and the hospitals,” she said.
Hemi’s story is one of triumph over adversity, showcasing the power of love, support, and determination. His journey, filled with challenges, has taught his family invaluable lessons about gratitude and resilience. As they continue to embrace life with hope, the Andrews family remains committed to cherishing every moment together, celebrating the extraordinary strength of a little boy with a big heart.
