Chase Mitchell may be one of the youngest kids in his first grade class at Westridge Elementary, with a September birthday, but he’s already lived through more medical challenges than many people will ever face. Today, he’s a happy, energetic kid who plays baseball, flag football and soccer. To anyone watching him run across a field, you’d never guess he was born with a serious congenital heart defect.
Shortly after Chase was born, doctors detected a heart murmur. Tests revealed two major issues: a leaky mitral valve and a ventricular septal defect: a large hole in his heart.
At just three months old, Chase underwent his first open‑heart surgery. But complications arose, and within a week and a half, he needed a second surgery, this time requiring a pacemaker.
Surgeons were able to patch the hole, and his mitral valve leak improved significantly.
Last December, Chase faced another frightening moment. One of the pacemaker’s attachments became detached, requiring emergency surgery to fix it. Even though he lives a mostly unrestricted life, moments like this remind the family that heart defects can bring sudden challenges.
Chase will continue to have regular monitoring, and around age 13 or 14, he’ll likely need a new pacemaker requiring additional surgeries.
Despite everything he’s been through, Chase is thriving. He plays sports and lives like any other kid his age. His parents don’t limit him beyond what’s medically necessary, tackle football might be off the table, but otherwise, he’s encouraged to live fully.
“We tell him he was born with a heart defect, the doctors fixed him up, and nothing should stop him from doing what any other kid can do,” Chase’s dad, James Mitchell says. “We tell him he’s a heart warrior.”
There’s no family history of congenital heart defects, and most people who meet Chase have no idea what he’s been through. “He’s just like every other kid,” James adds.
When Chase heard about the Kids Heart Challenge at school, he immediately wanted to share his story. He even created a video to apply as a student ambassador and has already made a big impact at his school. His dad, James, says that’s just who he is: “He has a great mindset and attitude, he’s a warrior.”
When asked if he’s excited to tell his story publicly, Chase admits he’s a little nervous yet he’s also proud and eager for new opportunities to inspire others.
With upcoming events, interviews, and social media features on the horizon, Chase is ready to step into the spotlight to show other kids facing heart challenges that they’re stronger than they know.
The Kids Heart Challenge is an American Heart Association program that teaches students heart-healthy habits, life-saving skills, and emotional well-being while raising funds to help children with special hearts.