When Diana and her partner first learned at their 20-week scan that something was wrong with their baby’s heart, fear gripped them. The doctors couldn’t tell exactly what it was, and the uncertainty was overwhelming. But in that moment, they made a decision that would carry them through the months ahead: they named their daughter

Amaris, meaning “promised by God.”

From the very beginning, Amaris’ journey was filled with both worry and hope. Shortly after her birth, she was referred to a specialist cardiology team. Initial scans suggested adouble aortic arch, a condition that can sometimes compress the airways and cause breathing difficulties. The news hit Diana and her partner hard, though they were reassured by the calm, compassionate guidance of their medical team.

As Amaris grew, a more detailed scan revealed the actual diagnosis: a right aortic arch (RAA). While she remained asymptomatic for breathing problems, her doctors explained that there could still be concerns about swallowing and feeding as she developed. ADiGeorge syndrome test was also recommended, which had previously been declined during pregnancy, to rule out any associated genetic issues.

Amaris’ first scan at just one day old confirmed her RAA, and the family could breathe a little easier knowing she had no immediate respiratory issues. However, as she reachedtwo to three months old, Diana noticed changes during feeding. Amaris vomited more than expected, seemed uncomfortable during and after meals, and occasionally appeared hesitant to feed.

Initially, the family consulted their GP, who checked for reflux and lactose intolerance. When symptoms persisted, and after reading another RAA story that resonated deeply, Diana requested that her cardiologist conduct aCT scan to examine the potential impact on Amaris’ trachea and esophagus. The cardiologist agreed, understanding that while the CT scan primarily assessed the airways, any tracheal compression could suggest esophageal involvement, which would later be confirmed through abarium swallow study.

At three months old, Amaris underwent her CT scan. Earlier concerns about milk intolerance had already been addressed by adjusting her feed with thickeners. By the time of hersix-month cardiac review, the results revealed a vascular ring formed by a right-sided aortic arch with an aberrant left subclavian artery and Kommerell’s diverticulum. A subsequent barium swallow confirmed significant compression of her esophagus, explaining her feeding difficulties.

Now 10 months old, Amaris is healthy, thriving, and gaining weight well. She has been scheduled for surgery in November to correct the vascular ring and relieve the pressure on her esophagus. Despite the fear, repeated tests, and long wait times, Diana feels grateful that her concerns were taken seriously and that Amaris received thorough care.

Reflecting on their journey, Diana emphasizes that every baby with RAA is different. While some may show obvious signs of breathing problems, others — like Amaris — may present primarily with feeding issues. She urges medical teams to evaluate each case individually and for parents to advocate for thorough assessments when concerns persist.

“Our girl didn’t show any breathing problems, and her feeding was largely the issue,” Diana shared. “We were really scared at first, but we feel lucky to have a team that listened and acted. Every baby with RAA is unique, and their symptoms and needs should be treated that way.”

Amaris’ story is a testament to persistence, advocacy, and the importance of careful monitoring. While her path has involved anxiety and uncertainty, she remains a chubby, healthy, and loved babywhose resilience mirrors the strength of her family. Diana hopes that by sharing their journey, other parents navigating rare heart conditions like RAA will feel empowered to seek the care their child deserves, knowing that even small symptoms deserve attention and that early detection can make a life-changing difference.