In December 2021, Lindsey Briggs’ world was shaken. While pregnant with her son, Christian Camacho, she contracted COVID-19 and, two months later, received devastating news: her unborn baby had an aneurysm in his heart, brain hemorrhaging, a cyst in his brain, and a kidney defect. It was never confirmed whether or not COVID caused the health concerns, but there was speculation. Doctors warned that Christian might not survive, and even if he did, he would likely require immediate open-heart surgery. It was a time filled with heartbreak and uncertainty.
Despite these challenges, Lindsey clung to hope. Christian’s father, Enrique Camacho, stood firm in his faith, confident their son would overcome the odds. Together, they faced the unknown, trusting in Christian’s strength.
A Miracle Unfolds
Defying all expectations, Christian was born without needing immediate surgery. Now approaching his third Christmas, he continues to inspire those around him with his resilience. Christian’s condition remains complex, with the aneurysm located inside his left ventricle, making surgical intervention far riskier than if it were on the surface of the heart.
Still, doctors are optimistic that the aneurysm may heal on its own, sparing Christian from surgery. For Lindsey and her family, his journey is a constant reminder to cherish every moment.
Lindsey recalls their decision to seek a second opinion at a Denver hospital, hoping for clarity. Instead, the experience turned traumatic, as doctors there offered an even grimmer prognosis, leading to emotional distress, particularly for Lindsey.
“Doctors are human and can make mistakes,” Lindsey reflects. “Getting second opinions and trusting your instincts is critical.”
From Isolation to Connection: Finding Strength in Shared Journeys
Lindsey wants other mothers to know that they don’t have to face these challenges alone and encourages them to reach out to her as a resource. She deeply wishes she had someone to turn to when she was pregnant with Christian, but his case was so rare that no one around her could relate.
Over time, Lindsey found other mothers, via social media, in different parts of the world facing the same challenges and connected with support groups that became a lifeline. She now wants to share this knowledge with others, offering information about the groups and resources that can provide comfort and guidance.
Looking back, Lindsey remembers the isolation she felt during her pregnancy. The fear of the unknown was so overwhelming that she couldn’t bring herself to remove the tags from the new baby clothes that hung in the nursery closet, let alone open and wash Christian’s bedding. Instead, she would sit in the rocking chair in his nursery, surrounded by the hope-filled preparations she had made, and cry for hours, consumed by the uncertainty of what lay ahead.
Carrying Christian for 3 months after that news was mentally draining… Was I going to even see by baby? Would I have this little life to raise and be a mom or mourn the loss of life and likely never be the same person again?
Through these moments of despair, she gained an understanding of how vital connection and support are, and now she wants to be that source of strength and encouragement for others.
The Importance of Maternal Mental Health and Genuine Self-Care
Through this experience, Lindsey learned the true value of self-care, especially for mothers facing similar challenges. “Taking care of yourself is just as important as caring for your child,” she says, hoping to inspire others to prioritize their mental health while navigating difficult times.
Above all, Lindsey wants her story to remind parents that hope is powerful. “Perseverance and faith can carry you through the darkest times,” she shares, believing Christian’s journey will encourage others to find strength in their own battles.
A Family’s Mission
The Briggs-Camacho family has turned their experience into a mission to help others. As advocates for UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, which played a vital role in Christian’s care, they participate annually in the UPMC Walk for Children, raising over $1 million in 2024 to support pediatric care. Their efforts aim to ensure families have access to the life-changing resources that made a difference in their lives.
A New Era of Hope
The family’s optimism is bolstered by advancements in pediatric cardiology at UPMC. In November 2023, UPMC announced plans for a state-of-the-art Heart Institute at UPMC Children’s Hospital in Lawrenceville. This facility, featuring cardiac catheterization labs, an interoperative MRI, and advanced treatment spaces, offers hope for children with complex heart conditions. For Lindsey, it represents a brighter future for families like hers.
Christian attends daycare at Child’s Way, housed within The Children’s Home & Lemieux Family Center, a program within the Lemieux Children’s Home, which specializes in caring for medically fragile and at-risk children from birth through age 21. This unique environment provides Christian with the specialized attention and support he needs while allowing him to interact and thrive alongside other children who face similar medical challenges. This also gives his parents piece of mind that medical professionals are on staff should a cardiac event occur.
Celebrating Every Moment
As Christian approaches his third Christmas, Lindsey celebrates every milestone. Despite predictions of significant learning challenges, Christian has surpassed expectations—already counting to 100 and embracing life with infectious enthusiasm. Lindsey focuses on his progress, finding joy in every victory, big or small.
“Christian is our miracle,” Lindsey says. “He’s proof that hope, love, and faith can overcome even the toughest challenges. Every moment with him is a gift, and we are committed to sharing his story to inspire others.”
The family’s journey has taught them the profound value of resilience, faith, and community. They remain dedicated to raising awareness and funds for pediatric care, ensuring others can access the same exceptional support that has been essential to Christian’s success.
Looking Ahead
Lindsey’s story is a testament to a mother’s unwavering love and the power of hope. As the UPMC Heart Institute nears completion, she dreams of a future where children like Christian have even greater opportunities for healing and growth, supported by cutting-edge medical advancements and compassionate care.
For the Briggs-Camacho family, each day is a celebration of resilience and love. As Lindsey reflects, “Christian has shown us what miracles look like—and for that, we are endlessly grateful.”
