Isabelle was born with only half a heart and was not doing well. So her doctor and family reached out to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital for help.

“Her surgeon called and said she’s gonna die unless you guys can help her, and I just said yes. We’re here to help,” said Frank Scholl, MD, Surgical Director, Heart Transplant and Heart Failure Program.

Isabelle was transferred from North Florida and continued to live in the hospital — she had never been able to go home — until a heart was found. In a complicated operation, Dr. Scholl and the transplant team reconstructed a place for her new heart.

The procedure was a great success. “She’s going home!” said Dr. Scholl. “And that is an amazing feeling.”

This little girl whose smile lights up the room is now thriving. “Isabelle is doing good,” said Frances, Isabelle’s mom. “I want to thank God, nurses, doctors and everyone at Joe DiMaggio.”