| Samuel Robert Mitchell |
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Sept 23,1996-Jan 5, 2000  Sammy was a late-life fulfillment of my dream of having
three wonderful children. We were thrilled to find out I was
pregnant. The age range was perfect for the older kids to enjoy
their little brother and they took an active role in his care.
They absolutely delighted in each other.
On Sammy’s 3rd birthday he lost consciousness while swimming. We couldn’t find a pulse and performed CPR. He spontaneously recovered before the ambulance arrived. The doctors at the ER were baffled and sent him to a children’s hospital for evaluation. We had many other tests and specialist consultations, but nothing was found. No one suggested a cardiac work-up. I was uneasy without a medical explanation but found an outlet for my fear by trusting in God. Three months later Sammy went into a quick convulsion and lost consciousness. We called 911 and did CPR until they arrived, but little Sammy’s heart never started again. Our precious son was dead. Anguished, we waited for the autopsy results to find out why. The phone call came; they found nothing wrong with him. Our other children were tested with a resting EKG and sonogram, which also showed nothing. Months later our doctor insisted that we all have stress tests. These showed possible LQTS for both children. The kids were put on beta-blockers and removed from their competitive sports activities with regret and uncertainty. Just last month, my mother had a stress EKG for an unrelated reason and it showed LQTS. This result identified the genetic carrier for Long QT Syndrome. We know that Sammy’s legacy is twofold. Other lives will be saved through his story, including possibly his own brother and sister. Two TV stations have spread his story to promote awareness and my cardiologist has lectured local physicians. Secondly, my walk with my Comforter and Lord has survived and been strengthened. Submitted by Wendy Mitchell, Sammy’s mother |
