Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) is near and dear to our hearts (pun intended)!
Our almost 7-year-old son, Joey, was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) at 23 weeks in utero.
We were graciously welcomed into the “Heart Family” – that we never knew existed, but are extremely grateful for its continued support, experience, and encouragement.
Joey has endured 3 open heart surgeries, the Norwood on 1/28/2019 at 4 days old, the Glenn on 6/11/2019 at 4 months old, and his most recent, the Fontan, on 8/18/2022! Celebrating his 3rd heart-iversary seems surreal! Joey has had countless life altering cardiac catheterizations, taken various medications, and grown a stellar team of pediatric cardiothoracic surgeons, nurses, doctors, PAs, NPs, X-ray techs, phlebotomists, respiratory therapists, residences, fellows, physical therapists, child life specialists, social workers, and numerous others at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
Our beautiful son lives a full life that is not without its challenges. He is our reason! His preciously kind demeanor, willingness to take on new obstacles, and overall zest for life brings a depth of meaning to the necessary fundraising efforts to continue supporting research for medical professionals in their endeavors to develop treatments for heart function, health and longevity.
The network of the heart families cast a very long net onto its ‘chosen’ members, given that 1 in 100 babies are born with CHD. Please consider making a meaningful difference in the lives of these little warriors, their families and the extensive medical professionals who make it all possible.
Since this is our 7th year participating, we have lofty, yet achievable, goals!