Colena's graduation
Colena has been a SickKids kid her entire life. Diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome before she was born, Colena was transferred to SickKids shortly after birth, where Dr. Glen Van Arsdell performed an eight-hour open-heart surgery on her walnut-sized heart. This was the first of three open-heart surgeries Colena underwent before the age of five. Now, as Colena approaches her 18th birthday later this year, she will not only be taking the next step in her young life and attending university this fall, but she will also be graduating from SickKids.Although most of Colena’s extensive hospital stays occurred when she was younger, Colena does still return to SickKids every few months for check-ups. It is a place that has had a big impact on her life, and she is grateful for that.
“SickKids means everything to me.”
When it comes to remembering those staff members who made a big difference for Colena during her time at the hospital, there are three people in particular Colena wanted to acknowledge.
“The most memorable nurses I ever encountered throughout my time at SickKids were Kathy and Libby in the Critical Care Unit. They always showed compassion and care for me, and they were a lot of fun. I also cannot forget about my cardiac surgeon, Dr. Van Arsdell, who performed my three open-heart surgeries.”
As Colena embarks on her next life adventure, attending university this fall, she is filled with both excitement and nerves.
“I am looking forward to beginning university,” Colena said. “I am excited to begin to take courses that I am interested in. I am nervous, however, to move into residence. Although I will only be an hour away from my home, it will still be difficult to not see my family and animals.”
The world of health care, which has made such an impact on Colena’s young life, will continue to play a role as she heads off to university to pursue a degree in Health Science.
“I chose to study science as I really enjoy both biology and chemistry, particularly related to the health field. I am eager to study both the scientific and societal aspects of health.”
Once she has completed her undergraduate degree, Colena plans to further her education by enrolling in graduate studies, where she hopes to focus on a health or medical-related field. Her end goal: to work in the health care field one day.
As Colena reflects back on her time at SickKids, she has a few words of insight for those who may just be starting their SickKids journey.
“SickKids is more than just a hospital. Every aspect of the hospital is geared towards children. The atmosphere in the hospital is adjusted to make every kid feel comfortable with whatever they are going through.”
