For Southmoreland student, Matthew Huff, life is very different than many high school students, whose biggest concerns include grades and the amount of time spent with friends.
Huff was recently put on the 1B heart transplant list, which means that he is the second highest priority on the transplant list.

Although Huff will hopefully have a new heart soon, staying optimistic is not an easy task.

“Sometimes I’ll just sit and think ‘Why me?’ but then I just look at all the good that came out of it,” Huff said.

Huff has been blessed with a loving and caring family that always helps Matt to keep pushing on. Huff’s mother, Amy, has a very different life from every other mother. But just like any other parent, she “wouldn’t want it any different.”

“The only thing I would change is wishing that Matthew would not have to go through all that he has to go through,” Mrs. Huff said.

At birth, Matt, 18, was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). This condition is a very rare birth defect that causes the left side of the heart to form incorrectly along with affecting blood flow to the heart. Most people with HLHS require a heart transplant at some point in their life, and Huff is currently approaching a similar status.

When asked how she copes with the difficulties of her son, Mrs. Huff said, “I know I have to try to have a positive attitude toward everything because if i didn’t, I wouldn’t be helping anyone, especially Matthew.”

Huff has survived for many years because of the constant Children’s Hospital visits and the wide array of medications. Although life tends to be very difficult for him, Huff forces himself to live life and keep hope.

“Through my journey, I have met some of the most amazing and wonderful people that help me get through my tough times at the hospital,” Huff said.

No one would wish such a burden on themselves, but this inspiring family makes it work with what they can. Through the experience, the family has gotten to go to Disney World, and they have been able to raise money for the American Heart Association. Overall, Matt’s condition has been a learning experience for the Huff family.

“I have learned that you shouldn’t ever take life for granted,” Matt said. “I’ve always enjoyed life to the best of my ability” Huff said.

Even though he will someday have a different heart, Matt Huff will always have the same remarkable personality and kind-hearted soul.