Olivia Harvey

When Olivia Harvey was born, her parents had no idea that their daughter was anything but happy and healthy. A last ­minute check by a nurse resulted in a diagnosis of multiple heart defects in addition to a congenital heart defect (CHD). Olivia was soon referred to Children’s where she had an echocardiogram that revealed more critical news about the state of her tiny heart. At just 6 months old, Olivia underwent her first open heart surgery at Children’s and spent three weeks in the hospital recovering. Though the surgery was a success, Olivia has had to face other struggles because of her condition. With CHD comes a whole host of other complications. Sadly, she has had issues with her liver, spleen, a brain aneurysm, blood disorder, JIA, and Noonan’s syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects growth. Fortunately, Olivia and her family have Children’s right in their backyard for all of her medical needs. At 9 years old, Olivia had her second open heart surgery. Admitted on a Tuesday, this incredibly brave girl was home by Friday afternoon. Olivia is now a striving, young woman who studies News and Sports Media at the University of Alabama. She aspires to one day be a sports journalist after her undergrad. Olivia has been inspired by the many college students at UGA Miracle throughout the years that she has joined and is now a staff member for BAMAthon, the University of Alabama’s dance marathon. By sharing her story, she hopes to spread awareness for CHD.