I am ecstatic to be riding for the first time in the Courage Classic! What makes this experience so special is dedicating my ride to one of the most resilient and courageous cardiac kiddos around. Her name is Alirix and here is her story told by her mother...
At the age of 2, Alirix was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy.We were told that she would need a heart transplant immediately and flown to Children's Hospital Colorado. This was the day that changed our lives forever.The team of doctors we met that day were absolutely amazing! We were informed every step of the way of what was going on. They even broke it down so that her diagnosis was more understandable. After a very hard six weeks, this team was able to stabilize my baby with medication so we could go home. The next 4 years of her life would be filled with lots of love, joy, and laughter. Playing and growing with her brother.

In May of 2017, Alirix's heart was worsening and after spending a week in the hospital in Kansas she was taken back to Children's Hospital Colorado. She was placed on the Berlin Heart and on May 11th, she was placed on the transplant list. 

On July 16th, 2017 after 67 days of being hooked up to Mr. Pump (Berlin Heart), the call we had been waiting on finally came!
Another family had made the choice to donate a heart for Alirix! As a mother my heart broke for her donor family, but I was so appreciative for them, doing what I couldn't, saving my babies life! Alirix came through surgery beautifully and I was able to hear the little heart that saved her life and, in the moment, I cried tears of joy for her life being saved.
Since transplant, Alirix has competed in gymnastics, jazz, and tap dance classes. She has become such the little artist and has a love for horses.
In the summer of 2019, we had the scariest part of transplant life. She was in slight rejection and was hospitalized for four days and was given medications for rejection and she bounced right back.
She finished the year out strong enjoying the holidays with family and friends. She has expressed she wants to play football in the fall, and to wrestle in the winter of 2020!
With the doctor's approval, she will be doing both. Alirix has had many new adventures. She has been able to experience things like the mountains and the beach. Traveling the United States is something she enjoys. She is an avid reader of Dorkie Diaries. The bond between her and her brother is unbreakable! The amount of love and compassion she gives to others is amazing. She is doing so many things that wouldn't have been possible without the donor family giving a heart for transplant, and the amazing team at Children's Hospital Colorado!