11-year-old heart transplant recipient visited by Drake discharged from hospital

WLS logo
Sunday, September 16, 2018

CHICAGO -- Heart transplant recipient Sofia Sanchez is on the road to recovery.



The 11-year-old's mother said that she is "feeling great and enjoying the fresh air."



Sanchez, of Downers Grove, was discharged from Lurie Children's Hospital on Wednesday and is recovering for the next 4-6 weeks at the Ronald McDonald House.



In July, Sofia underwent open heart surgery in order to connect a VAD (ventricular assist device), which is a mechanical pump that helps support the heart and blood flow in people with heart failure.



RELATED: Drake visits young heart patient in Chicago after she posts 'Kiki Challenge' video



After Sofia's "In My Feelings" video went viral, Drake visited her when he was in Chicago as part of his tour in August. He said they chatted about Justin Bieber and basketball.



Sofia learned last month that she was getting a new heart. Her mother delivered the news to her in video that was posted on Facebook.



"I'm getting a heart! Oh my God!" Sofia squealed in the video.



Copyright © 2024 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.