The Fight Like Deuce Foundation was created in memory of Christopher Wheeler II, affectionately known as “Deuce,” who, in his short but impactful years, showed an incredible capacity for joy, strength, and resilience. Born with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD), Deuce faced more challenges than most, yet he met each day with bravery and a contagious smile that uplifted everyone around him. Deuce’s courage and spirit of joy continue to inspire us, even though his time with us was far too brief.

Christopher (Deuce) was diagnosed with hypoplastic left heart syndrome in utero. Although his parents were told that his life would not be easy, his parents knew that he would be worth it. With the upmost love in their hearts, they made the decision to give their son his best chance in life.

 At a meager 5lbs 4oz., Christopher was 36 hours old when he had his first heart surgery at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C. After three weeks inpatient, he finally made it home. At six months old, Christopher had his first open heart surgery that required him to be on a cardiac bypass machine. Less than 12 hours after the surgery, Christopher experienced cardiac arrest. He was placed on ECMO and suffered a stroke, losing the ability to move the right side of his body. After two months of recovery and surgical placement of a feeding tube, Christopher was cleared to go home. Although Christopher had to learn to sit-up and eat again, he triumphed. He learned to craw at 12 months old and learned to walk at 17 months old. At 2.5 years old, Christopher had his third open heart surgery, which completed his series of palliative surgeries.

Christopher was finally cleared to attend school after his family moved to Texas. In August of 2021, he was listed for a heart transplant after being diagnosed with severe heart failure. In May of 2022, he was placed on ECMO again and suffered a stroke that affected the left side of his body. He also received a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) as a bridge to his heart transplant. During this time, he endured many procedures and hundreds of hours of rehab therapy. On January 3, 2023, his LVAD malfunctioned, and he suffered irreversible brain damage. Just like the decision his parents made from love years ago to allow him his best chance in life, they made the decision to allow his body to finally be at peace. On January 8, 2023, Christopher peacefully transitioned in his parents’ arms at Texas Children’s Hospital.

Christopher lived a beautiful life. He liked to paint, sing, and dance. He loved going to school and riding the school bus. He was kind, compassionate, and had a great sense of humor. He loved going to the zoo and riding trains. He’s been to many amusement parks and even rode a rollercoaster. He aspired to be a doctor. While Christopher has had to endure more than most in his short life, his parents made sure that he had a chance to experience life. His smile and laugh could light up any room. His life has touched many and it is our hope that his life will always be remembered.

The Fight Like Deuce Foundation exists to honor Deuce’s legacy by supporting CHD families through the emotional and mental challenges that come with this journey. We are committed to providing a community of compassion and remembrance for families who, like us, have faced the devastating loss of a child. Through a supportive network of understanding and remembrance, we stand together with families in their struggles and celebrate the love that connects us all.