Kobe’s Story

On March 12th, 2020, Creighton and Elisa Chong welcomed our twin boys, Christian and Kobe, into the world. Unfortunately, Kobe was not breathing well and needed to be transferred to Wolfson Children’s Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida. Once moved, Kobe had an emergent heart catheterization only to discover he had a rare critical Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) called Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venus Return (TAPVR). This heart defect required Kobe to have immediate Open Heart Surgery to survive. Over three challenging months, Kobe had three open-heart surgeries, was on and off life support, faced several complications, and fought hard for his life. Kobe showed more strength and courage during his short life than most people show in their entire lifetime. On June 19th, 2020, Kobe Kekoa Chong took his last breath here on Earth and went to be with Jesus. Before his birth, Elisa and Creighton received a verse from the Bible, Joshua 1:9, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” This verse inspired them to give Kobe his Hawaiian middle name, Kekoa, meaning “Brave.” God knew what Kobe was up against. He was brave, and this verse helped them stay “Strong and Courageous” and turn to God and know he is there even in the worst storm of their lives. The turtle theme became significant to Kobe as he liked things slow and steady and never gave up. His hospital room was decorated with a turtle theme by “Once Upon a Room,” turtles now serve as a sweet reminder of Kobe.

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We share Kobe’s story in hopes of helping and sharing God’s love with others. Below, you can click the links to see interviews and articles about Kobe’s life and our experiences as his parents.