The remarkable journey of Dennis and Katie Engles, marked by moments of fear and triumph, is now paving the way for hope and safety in their community. In 2022, the couple faced the unexpected when their newborn son was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect. Just three years later, their daughter faced the same diagnosis.
“There’s not really words that can describe the feelings that you’re having,” Dennis reflected on the emotional rollercoaster the Scranton family experienced. Despite the challenges, both children successfully underwent heart surgeries and are thriving today. The family has since dedicated themselves to helping others by donating AED machines to youth sports leagues. Their son Tate, now an energetic 3-year-old, is set to lead the American Heart Association Northeast PA Heart Walk at PNC Field.
A Startling Discovery
Tate’s condition, tetralogy of Fallot, was not detected during prenatal care. The condition involves four heart abnormalities that hinder oxygen flow to the body. It was only after his birth that further testing was prompted by his Apgar score. Katie, determined to be with her son, secured an early discharge to accompany him to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where he underwent successful surgery months later.
The family faced another shock when their daughter, Poppy, was diagnosed with the same heart defect shortly after birth. Like her brother, Poppy has also undergone surgery and is now thriving alongside Tate. The siblings are expected to lead normal lives without restrictions.
Approximately 1 in 2,041 babies in the U.S. are born with tetralogy of Fallot annually, according to the CDC. The exact cause remains unknown, leaving the Engles family with unanswered questions about why both their children were affected.
Building a Support Network
Initially feeling isolated after Tate’s diagnosis, the Engles family found solace and support through the Scranton-based group Jack of Hearts PA. Founded by Donny and Lisa Scarfo, the organization connects families facing similar challenges. “A heart family is something you didn’t want to be a part of, but you couldn’t imagine your life without,” Katie expressed.
Inspired by their experiences, Lisa Scarfo pursued a career as a cardiac sonographer, working with Geisinger and CHOP to assist more families. She values the network of Jack of Hearts families, emphasizing the importance of community and connection.
Making a Difference at Sports Events
The Engles family’s efforts to provide safety equipment at local sports venues are driven by their desire to help others. Through initiatives like the “Toppings for Tate” pizza fundraiser and school dress-down days, they have raised funds to purchase AED machines. These life-saving devices have been donated to several local leagues, including the Dunmore Missy League and Little Leagues in Minooka and Green Ridge.
“We want to help families that have gone through this as much as Jack of Hearts helped us,” Dennis shared. Recently, the family presented an AED to the Abington Area Girls Softball League, with plans to train coaches and community members in its use. “Not only is it there for the kids, but it’s there for grandma or grandpa, if they’re sitting on the sidelines too,” Katie noted.
Walking with the ‘Heart Family’
This Saturday, Tate will take on the role of “Heart Hero” at the heart walk at PNC Field. Alongside him will be his pediatric cardiologist, NICU nurses, and a large group of family and friends, including some of his young peers who affectionately refer to the event as the “Valentine’s Day walk.”
Katie and Dennis will join their “heart family” for the walk, grateful for the community they never anticipated but now cannot imagine life without. “You’re not alone,” Katie said, underscoring the message of solidarity and support that has defined their journey.
