'He’s got a good heart:' Elgin boy overcomes decade of heart problems

February is American Heart Month, which is meant to raise awareness about heart disease. It's the leading cause of death in the U.S. However, A boy from Elgin now has a second shot at life after overcoming a decade of heart problems.  

Aiden Magana’s life is what one would expect from an 11-year-old. The basketball court is where he bankrolls most of his time.  

“Stay in the game - be focused,” Aiden said.   

Aiden’s life had a first act with many plot twists. His mother Melissa Magana remembered that Nashville hospital visit when Aiden was a a baby. 

“When they were completing the anatomy scan is when they found his heart condition,” Magana said. “It was terrifying.” 

Aiden needed surgery because his heart valve wasn’t strong enough. 

“He had a two-week NICU stay,” Magana said. “By six weeks old he was needing emergency surgery.” 

Doctors delivered the assist and fixed Aiden’s heart. His life carried a new beat. The military brought the Magana family to Elgin. In 2023, Melissa noticed Aiden didn’t carry the same rhythm. 

“He was struggling,” Magana said. 

Last spring Aiden survived act two – another surgery at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital. Doctors placed a stent through his neck. 

“We’re blessed for sure,” Magana said. 

Aiden is the point guard for his basketball team.  

“I try not to let it overcome me,” Aiden said. “Don’t let a condition overcome yourself. be yourself. You’re never gonna get to it if you never try.” 

Perhaps Aiden’s best intangible comes from within. 

“He never used it as a crutch at all,” Magana said. “He’s always looking out for somebody else.” 

Aiden wants people to look at him now and remember he’s always been this way - just a young man from Elgin who takes every shot he gets. 

“He’s got a good heart,” Magana said. “We'll just keep keeping on."