Ayden Skillman, an 18-year-old from Greybull, Wyoming, is back home after spending much of his life in hospitals due to a rare congenital heart defect, Cowboy State Daily reports.
Ayden recently underwent a successful heart transplant, and doctors are pleased with his remarkable progress. His mother, Deanna Skillman, shared that he is thriving beyond expectations.
“He hasn’t had an ounce of rejection at all,” she said.
Skillman noted that Ayden’s new heart has already overcome stiffness typically seen in transplant patients. Doctors initially expected it to take six months for the heart to adapt, but Ayden’s heart has already softened, an unprecedented outcome according to his medical team.
Born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a condition affecting only two or three out of every 10,000 live births, Ayden’s life has been filled with surgeries and hospital stays. The condition, which prevented his heart from adequately pumping blood, led to chronic fatigue and other complications. Despite these challenges, Ayden’s resilience and upbeat personality have made him a beloved figure in his community.
Earlier this year, Ayden’s health took a serious turn when a circulation issue caused a life-threatening infection. Doctors in Denver determined he urgently needed a new heart. Just four days later, a match was found, giving Ayden the life-saving transplant he desperately needed.
The Skillmans’ return to Greybull was met with joy and relief. Although Ayden must avoid large crowds to protect his health, the town organized a small, heartfelt welcome at Bob’s Diner & Bakery, the family business where Ayden enjoys working. To keep Ayden safe, hugs were replaced with elbow bumps, but the love and support were palpable.
Deanna Skillman praised the community’s ongoing support, saying:
“Everyone’s excited. When people see him, they’re just happy to see he’s back home. They’ve also noticed the night-and-day difference in his appearance.”
Now home, Ayden enjoys spending time with his brothers, Dominic and Josiah, and appreciates the freedom of being in familiar surroundings. To ensure his safety during flu season, the family prepared a private room for Ayden, where he set up his collection of Legos and posters.
Recently, Ayden had a perfect evening filled with movies and family time. A banner from the Basin Chamber and a signed jousting stick from his Dungeons & Dragons friends remind him of the love and encouragement surrounding him.
The Skillman family is embracing a quiet, traditional Thanksgiving this year, focusing on being together. They have already cut down a Christmas tree, continuing their tradition of decorating it during the holiday season.
“The main thing is, Ayden gets to be home for the holidays… And he’s so happy about that. We all are,” Deanna said.
