Pulmonary Hypoplasia Program Patient Stories

Amelia’s journey began with a rare and complex birth defect. Thanks to expert care at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, she has overcome incredible challenges.

Hugh was diagnosed with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) in utero and received care at the Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), which has treated more CDH cases than any hospital in the world.

Fetal surgery for severe CDH gave AJ’s lungs a chance to grow before birth, improving his chances of a better outcome. Today, the 6-year-old is thriving.

When their unborn baby was diagnosed with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), Alyssa and Louis turned to CHOP for treatment before and after birth.

Lucy was born with small lungs and critical breathing challenges. The care she received at CHOP prepared her to go home with minimal breathing support.

After receiving a prenatal diagnosis of CDH, Laura and Nick turned to the expertise of CHOP’s fetal team.

After an unexpected prenatal diagnosis, Olly’s parents found comfort with the experienced team at CHOP’s Center for Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment.

After a long journey to overcome giant omphalocele, a life-threatening birth defect, Emma is thriving.

Elijah needed a lifesaving surgery while he was still in his mother’s womb. Today, he's an active 6-year-old who loves basketball and T-ball, goes swimming, rides his bike, and rock climbs.

Born with CDH, Gage made a full recovery after surgery at CHOP. To help others, his family is participating in research about long-term outcomes for CDH.