How two kids waiting for hearts found friendship in Chicago
Meet Marshall and Myla. Theirs is a story about friendship, hardship, and survival, all made possible because Myla and Marshall were both patients at Lurie Children’s Hospital.
From Strangers to BFFs
Despite the age difference, they became close friends—or, as they say, BFFs.
Myla was 11 when they met, and Marshall was 6. It was their hearts that brought them together—or rather, the fact that they both needed a new one.
“We met in the hospital, and at first, our rooms were next to each other. We started talking, and we became friends,” said Myla.
“One of the reasons we also became BFFs is because on her birthday, I made a card, and the card said, ‘Would you be my BFF?’” Marshall added.
A Bond Through Shared Experiences
Myla and Marshall had something else in common: they were both born with heart conditions that kept them in and out of the hospital until a transplant was the only option. So, they waited in the hospital for months, together, inseparable, enjoying each other’s company every single day.
“We really had no friends except me and her, and so we went everywhere together,” Marshall said.
Awaiting the Gift of Life
They first met in April when Myla was admitted to Lurie. Then, in July, three months later, Myla received the news that she would be getting her new heart.
It’s a day Myla’s mother, Heather, will never forget.
“There’s a weird feeling of sadness and happiness at the same time. You are joyful for yourself and sadness and remorse for the loss of another family,” Heather said.
Marshall found out about the good news a short time later.
“Yeah, I was happy for her and kind of sad… because I didn’t get one,” Marshall said.
“I was kind of sad to leave Marshall, but I also really wanted to go get a heart so I could go home and see my dog,” Myla added.
The Waiting Game
Marshall still waits. His doctors are optimistic his time will come.
“I am not just hopeful, but I’m pretty confident that he will get his heart. It’s just a matter of time. And the good news is he is in such good shape for a transplant. He does all the things he needs to do to be a really good transplant candidate while he waits,” said Dr. Phillip Thrush.
Looking to the Future
But until that new heart comes, Marshall continues to get the love and attention he needs at Lurie and looks forward to Myla’s once-a-month checkups when he can be reunited with his BFF. He sees how well Myla is doing and is looking forward to what a new heart will mean for him.
“After I get my heart, I’m going to have super speed. They’re going to take my DNA, and I’m going to have super speed,” Marshall said.
A Lasting Bond
In the meantime, Myla and Marshall still have that bond. Their parents became close as well, connected by their children’s heart conditions and grateful to have not only another family to lean on but also the help of a loving staff at Lurie that they say will remain family forever.
“Myla’s condition was deteriorating, and she’s alive because of Lurie’s. I owe my daughter’s life to it,” said Jeff, Myla’s father.
Conclusion
Their story is a testament to the power of friendship and the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the challenges they face, Marshall and Myla remain hopeful and optimistic, knowing that their bond will only continue to grow stronger with each passing day.
FAQs
Q: What is the current status of Marshall’s heart transplant?
A: Marshall is still waiting for a heart transplant, but his doctors are optimistic that his time will come soon.
Q: How often do Myla and Marshall see each other?
A: Myla and Marshall still have regular checkups at Lurie, and they look forward to seeing each other during these visits.
Q: What is the current condition of Myla’s heart?
A: Myla received a new heart and is doing well. She is grateful for the gift of life and is excited to see what the future holds.
