For 8-year-old Sophia Pinto, the skill of pediatric surgeons at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital made it possible for her to live a full and active life and be the bubbly and happy child she is today.
A third-grader at Matthew Patterson Elementary School in Carmel, Sophia loves to draw, sing, and play with her baby dolls, says mom Christina. But, she added, “It has been some journey.”
Sophia’s journey started before she was born when 16 weeks into her mother’s pregnancy doctors discovered that her heart was not developing properly. Because the right side of her heart was malformed, Sophia had to overcome some serious challenges that began with open heart surgery when she was just one-week old. Another surgery followed at three months old, and a third surgery in 2017 when Sophia was three and a half years old.
“We really didn’t expect her to survive, said Christina. “Since her third surgery, a new child has emerged. It’s truly a miracle.”
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More inspirational stories from Maria Fareri Childrens Hospital:
Living Proof of What’s Possible: Alex’s Story of Courage and Recovery
A New Beginning for Autumn: A Family’s Journey to Hope
A Grateful Heart: Marissa, Amy, and Baby Rosalyn’s Journey
For moms Marissa and Amy of Orange County, their pregnancy journey took an unexpected turn…
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Rocco J. Pucino III is the VP/Retail Banking Officer at Ulster Savings Bank’s Kingston headquarters. In Mr. Pucino’s new role, he will is responsible for overseeing and directing the Retail Banking area by providing guidance and support to the bank’s 15 branch locations.
