LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – Grayson Gallardo is an 11-year-old boy who has a bright smile and big dreams. Gallardo was born with a rare congenital heart defect called Tricuspid atresia. His condition means living with only half a functioning heart.
Despite the challenges, Grayson’s parents Greg and Paloma Gallardo have worked to make sure he has a life filled with love and joy.
“We won the wrong lottery because it’s something that’s very rare,” Greg said.
“He knows he’s had surgeries and that he can’t play certain sports or do certain things other kids can do,” said Paloma in Spanish.
Grayson has already undergone three open-heart surgery and takes daily medication to manage his condition. While his physical activities are limited, his spirit is anything but.
“My biggest dream is to help people with the same conditions as me,” Grayson said.
Grayson’s courage hasn’t gone unnoticed. The American Heart Association has named him a Kid’s Heart Hero Ambassador for Nevada. Soon, he will be featured across schools in the state to hopefully inspire other children facing similar challenges.
“He has shown me how to be brave,” Paloma said in Spanish.
The Gallardo family hopes advancements in medicine will one day extend life expectancy for people with tricuspid atresia. Until then, they are savoring every moment and celebrating the impact Grayson is already making in his community.
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