An 8-year-old survives multiple heart surgeries; shares journey to inspire awareness

LEE COUNTY, Fla. (WINK) — An 8-year-old boy in Lee County is recognized for his strength and bravery after surviving two major heart surgeries.

Sawyer Hooks has big dreams, like any kid. But Sawyer didn't grow up like most kids.

He was born with Tetralogy of Fallot.

"I remember the ultrasound, and there was a speck, like a little white dot on his heart," his father, Robert Hooks, said.

Tetralogy of Fallot is very rare. According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it occurs when a baby's heart does not form correctly during pregnancy.

It's a combination of four heart defects: the narrowing of the valve between the heart and lungs, a hole between the bottom heart chambers, the aorta shifted to the right directly above the hole in the heart wall and a thickening of the right lower chamber of the heart. All of which, over time, may cause heart failure.

Doctors told Sawyer's parents the baby had to come out.

"We were all pretty, pretty surprised," said Hooks. "So, I dropped his mom off at Golisano, and then I headed home to get the bag. And next thing you know, Sawyer is in the world."

Sawyer had open-heart surgery at 16 days old.

"Him and his mother flew over in the helicopter, and I packed bags and followed suit," Hooks said. "I genuinely don't believe there's anything that can prepare you for that, especially with your first child. You know, it's supposed to be exciting and, you know, warm and welcoming. And you know, unfortunately, ours was kind of filled with fear and unknown."

The surgery was a success, bringing Sawyer home. The family later welcomed Sawyer's little brother Cooper.

At 6-years-old, Sawyer had another surgery.

"I was scared," said Sawyer. "My stomach got all tingly when we were on our way."

He was always positive. Even as the procedures and check-ups continued, Sawyer's strength and bravery didn't go unrecognized.

He was named a Kids Heart Challenge Champion by the American Heart Association.

"To advocate for what they've gone through and share their stories with their community so that people understand what the program is doing is helping real people, their neighbors and their friends right in their community,"  said Christina Stewart, the school engagement director for Southwest Florida with the American Heart Association.

Sawyer shared a message for others like him.

"Just trust God and know that he's always there for you even through the rough times, and you can be brave no matter what," Sawyer said.

The Hooks said they're excited to share their tough, years-long journey with other families and their kids, to make sure others don't feel alone in their fight.