Katrina Tyler

Katrina was born with OA/TOF (VAcTErL) in 1957. She was transferred to Birmingham Children’s Hospital (BCH) immediately after birth. Here, under the care of Mr Keith Roberts, a surgical registrar, she underwent anastomosis of short gap oesophageal atresia and repair of tracheal fistula. A diagnosis of volvulus and anorectal malformation were also made requiring life saving surgery at day 5 and further corrective procedures were needed in the first 2 years of her life.

These experiences shaped Katrina’s career choices, SRN training followed by Sick Children’s Nursing at BCH. Here she met infants born with OA/TOF and VATER Association (acronym used in the early 1980’s) and nursed in the cardio – thoracic ICU where Mr Roberts was now the lead consultant.

Katrina was a founder member of Shropshire’s Community Children’s Nursing Team, caring for children with complex and life limiting conditions. Her final years of nursing were spent at Hope House Children’s Hospice.

Katrina has been a member of TOFS for many years, recently working alongside other adults born with TOF to produce the latest Adult booklet – Improving Health Outcomes for Adults Born with OA/TOF.