This is Ellie!! Ellie was diagnosed with a Peritoneopericardial Diaphragmatic Hernia (PPDH). It’s a long named condition we had never even heard of until it was unexpectedly in front of us!!
Ellie’s story with SASH began in late April when we rushed her to the SASH Gold Coast Emergency Hospital. She had been vomiting continuously all day, until there was blood present in her vomit, very scary! She was admitted overnight for emergency care.
The following morning, we were told that the team had discovered a small hernia in Ellie’s diaphragm and that her condition required referral to a specialist within the hospital. We soon met with specialist Dr Lisa Singer, who organised further diagnostics including X-rays and an ultrasound. It was then confirmed that Ellie had a PPDH.
Ellie’s entire gallbladder, part of her liver, and a portion of her intestine had herniated through her diaphragm and were sitting dangerously close to her heart and lungs. Surgery was not optional. Without intervention, the risks and potential complications were severe.
We were referred to surgeon Dr James King, who performed the delicate surgery to place Ellie’s organs back where they belonged and repair the hole in her diaphragm. Ellie spent the night in the cat ICU, where she received the most exceptional care.
Amazingly, we were able to take her home the very next night. Ellie came home with a long incision, her cone of shame firmly in place, a medication list and nervous parents that didn’t take their eyes off her! She was on strict rest in her recovery room for 2 weeks.
Ellie made an incredible recovery!! We celebrated her 9th Birthday in September with many more to celebrate in the years to come thanks to SASH.
We will forever be grateful for the expertise and care that saved Ellie’s life. Thank you to every single person that makes SASH what they are! The doctors, the nurses the reception staff. We could never thank you enough. Thanks to you Ellie has many more treats to be had, naps to be taken and zoomies to be zoomed!! Thank you!! – Gold Coast QLD
