In 1988, Victor Bruno was born with Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return. During surgery, he suffered a double stroke due to a lack of oxygen being supplied to his brain, affecting both hemispheres and resulting in him developing cerebral palsy.
Despite this and all the challenges he faced throughout his life, Victor never let it stop him from loving and living life to the fullest. He was smart, caring, joyful, and had a true heart of gold. He loved his family and friends dearly, and always brought a smile to everyone’s face. Victor passed away in 2004 at the age of 15 due to complications from his condition.
Lorenzo Panko, Victor's nephew, was born in 2019 with an undiagnosed Transposition of the Great Arteries. Upon his birth, he was airlifted to have a life-saving procedure that allowed oxygen to flow through his body, undergoing open heart surgery. Now 5 years old, Lorenzo is a fun-loving, adventurous, intelligent, and compassionate young boy whom his family and friends adore.
Hearts of Gold walks for Victor Bruno, Lorenzo Panko, and everyone affected by all forms of CHD. We’ve been walking since the 2024 Team CHD Illinois Annual Walk, where we exceeded our goal of $500, raising $1,100 to benefit those with CHD and their families.
