Full of Energy

The odds were against Ashley Swensen even before she was born. When her mother, Michelle, was 20 weeks into her pregnancy, a routine ultrasound revealed serious problems with Ashley's tiny heart. After further tests, Michelle was diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disease that can affect a developing fetus. Doctors determined that Ashley was suffering from congenital complete heart block.

Michelle was immediately put on a high dose of steroids to control the condition. She knew Ashley's life was hanging in the balance, but Michelle and her husband clung to hope, counting the weeks as the pregnancy progressed.

Thirty-four weeks into the pregnancy, Ashley's heart started failing, but doctors felt the risk of delivering such a tiny baby was too high. One week later, with their options running out, they scheduled a Caesarean delivery. When Ashley was born, unexpectedly weighing more than seven pounds, her parents knew they had a fighter on their hands.

Eight years later, thanks to continuing advances in medical technology, Ashley is a thriving, vivacious second grader. Since she was born, a pacemaker has regulated her heart, allowing her to lead a normal life. Learn more about the cardiac pacemaker system.

Ashley's current device, St. Jude Medical's Integrity® µ, is the world's smallest dual-chamber pacemaker. Since receiving the new pacemaker, Ashley's parents have noticed significant changes in her, including higher energy, greater alertness and increased motivation at school, where she is a straight-A student. More independent and determined than ever, Ashley enjoys bike riding, rollerblading, arts and crafts, and frolicking with her family.

"Doctors told me Ashley would be small and inactive," says Michelle. "Instead, she's off the growth charts and so full of energy I can barely keep up. Her pacemaker has given her the chance for a normal childhood and a wonderful future and for that, we are extremely grateful."