One family in the Twin Cities metro area is filled with extra gratitude this holiday season. A 16-year-old baseball player, Carter Anderson, had a birthday that took an unexpected turn. Instead of getting in line for his driver's license as planned, he found himself in line for a life-changing new heart.

A Teenager's Journey to a New Heart on His Special Day

Background

Carter Anderson is a 16-year-old sophomore at Wayzata High School. His unwavering positive attitude both on and off the baseball field has inspired those around him. "He was a trooper through everything," said his mother, Phalen Stang.In 2021, due to family history on his father's side, Anderson was diagnosed with a heart condition. "He was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy dilated," Stang explained. In 2022, he received a device that administers electric shocks when necessary to restore a regular heart rhythm. However, this past September, during a baseball tournament, the device shocked him multiple times. Anderson was rushed to the hospital, and his family learned that his heart was failing. "His ejection fraction in September was 29%, and by the end of October, it had dropped to 18%," Stang said.

Diagnosis

The journey of Carter Anderson's heart condition was a challenging one. After being closely monitored, the diagnosis of cardiomyopathy dilated came as a shock. The device that was supposed to provide support during critical moments failed to do so on multiple occasions. The September incident during the baseball tournament was a turning point, leading to his rushed hospitalization. The family's worry and concern grew as they saw their son's heart health deteriorate.

Recovery and Hope

Weeks later, on his 16th birthday, Anderson received a new heart. He is currently recovering at St. Mary's Hospital in Rochester. Anderson and his family are sharing his story to raise awareness about the importance of organ donors. "We're very, very thankful for our donor," Stang said. "A lot of people don't realize there are many kids in need of hearts."Doctors have given Anderson and his family hope. They informed them that, on average, a child who receives a donor heart can expect it to last more than 20 years before potentially needing another transplant, and this average is increasing. Anderson himself is optimistic about his recovery and hopes to be able to participate in high school baseball tryouts in the spring. His determination and spirit are a testament to the power of hope and the kindness of others.