Lockdown birthday celebrations for miracle heart op girl Chanel as she marks her 7th birthday with Disney theme party

A day filled with cake, games and new toys helped Chanel Murrish celebrate as she reached her 7th birthday.

By Fiona Thompson

Published 25th Feb 2021, 16:01 BST

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The Seaham schoolgirl was diagnosed with the rare Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome with Intact Atrial Septum heart condition when mum Fay, 31, and dad Micheal, 34, were expecting her.

She was rushed into theatre moments after she was delivered and given a life-saving operation – the first of 10 surgeries – and has since had a stroke and been diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

In time, it is expected she will need a heart transplant, with her health constantly monitored for any signs of problems.

Chanel Murrish with her birthday cake, made by Heaven Sent Cupcakes, of Murton, which has made one for her each year to mark the occasion.

Chanel Murrish with her birthday cake, made by Heaven Sent Cupcakes, of Murton, which has made one for her each year to mark the occasion.

Since before her birth, her family have worked to raise funds to help others like them and formed a network with parents and youngsters to support each other through the tough times they face.

To mark her birthday, she blew out the candles of her Minnie Mouse-themed cake and tackled a pinata alongside brothers Cole, eight, and Chase, 11, and opened her gifts and played more games during the day.

It comes after her family was given a letter extending her shielding time, as Chanel is at an increased risk caused by the pandemic.

The measures have also kept her free of the usual bugs she would catch before the coronavirus caused additional concern.

Chanel pictured as she recovered from one of her procedures to treat her for her heart condition.

Chanel pictured as she recovered from one of her procedures to treat her for her heart condition.

Fay said: “Because of the lockdown she hasn’t been poorly for the last year and she usually picks up all the bugs because of her immune system, but she’s been really well and we’ve had a lot of time together as a family.

"For us it’s been nice to just be normal and to be able to stay at home.

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"Her milestones just make me remember about everything that’s happened in the past and makes us really celebrate, because it feels more precious, but we also think about all those children we’ve seen in hospital as well.

Chanel Murrish had a Minnie Mouse-themed birthday celebration.

Chanel Murrish had a Minnie Mouse-themed birthday celebration.

"That’s not just on Chanel’s birthday, but the boys as well, and we always appreciate these special times and to be at home for them as well.”

Chanel’s story can be followed through the Facebook page Chanel Murrish HLHS.

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