Meet the amazing little girl born with her heart outside her chest

A beautiful little girl born with her heart outside her chest is hoping she will soon be able to receive life-saving treatment.

6 year old Virsaviya ‘Bathsheba’ Borun was born with a rare condition called Pantalogy of Cantrell, causing her heart and intestines to be placed visibly outside of her chest. Virsaviya is also missing part of her chest bones, part of her abdominal muscles and a diaphragm.

Virsaviya’s mum Dari, a single parent, has understandably gone to extreme lengths for the sake of her daughter, moving her from Russia to the USA to be near doctors who have experience with the rare condition. However, after intense medical tests, doctors in Boston’s Children’s Hospital ultimately advised against surgery, as Virsaviya’s high blood pressure was deemed too risky for the procedure.

Although this was a blow to Virsaviya and her mum, they remain hopeful – if she continues to take the medicine prescribed to her and her blood pressure improves, the surgery may still go ahead.

Despite her tender years Virsaviya has amazing courage and self-acceptance, no doubt instilled in her by her loving mum. “My mom always told me that she loves my heart and I really like it,” she says proudly.

At the moment Dari is fundraising for Virsaviya’s treatment – if you want to help you can visit her YouCaring crowdfunding campaign or follow her Instagram page for updates.