A routine 6 week checkup for Baby Jeandré, Derick and Rouche Boonzaaier's son, on the 24th July 2008 turned into a nightmare when he was diagnosed with a badly defective heart.

The baby had almost no RV and no valve. The two arteries going to the body and lungs were defective. One was extremely narrow and not attached correctly. Too much blood was also flowing to the lungs.

The first cardiologist said he might not see the end of the month, and that his condition was inoperable. The second specialist at the Chris Barnard Hospital in Cape Town, also didn't have much hope but said he'd speak to Dr Susan Vosloo.

Dr Susan Vosloo however, decided that although an operation would be very complex and high risk, it was worth it to try and save this precious child. Although the procedure would be new for her, Dr Vosloo decided to use facets of the Norwood procedure.

He received his first of three open heart surgeries on 29 July 08. Dr. Vosloo operated on him for 8 hours!

He will be in hospital until at least the middle of September, and then go back for the next operation middle October/November.

Jeandre is being a true little BRAVEHEART (as mommy and daddy are calling him)!

We believe he will pull through!

Follow Baby Jeandré's progress on his Facebook Group. Also take a look at his Photos.