Meet Ryker Lee. He is a Heart Hero from Gilbert, Arizona and is one year old.   Ryker was born with congenital heart defects called Tricuspid Dysplasia, Ebstein’s Anomaly, Pulmonary Artresia, and Atrial Septal Defect (ASD). Ebstein’s Anomaly affects the tricuspid valve and can cause blood to flow back into the heart instead of flowing to the lungs. Ryker has had two open-heart surgeries. He’s also had two tricuspid valve replacements and two right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduits replaced. Ryker is currently in heart failure and awaiting a third surgery.

Ryker’s big brother wears superhero capes all day, to be super! Having a Heart Hero Cape means that Ryker will be that much more super to match his big brother. Ryker’s strength and happy attitude help him overcome his CHD. Having a Heart Hero is all about hope for Devan and Brigham, Ryker’s parents. Their CHD journey is just starting, but Devan is already very passionate about raising awareness for CHD. Heart Heroes is proud to feature some of Devan’s photography as part of the One Heart Campaign- visit http://heartheroes.org/the-red-series for more information.

Follow Ryker’s journey: http://nielsenphotos.tumblr.com