CHD Real Stories

Hear from parents and survivors of CHD as they share their powerful stories.

CHD Survivor Stories

Jamie and Jackson

Jackson with his brother and parents

Kristal and Ariel

Ariel Hernandez underwent heart surgery last year. (Photo courtesy of Kristal Hernandez)

Kernika and Savera

Savera wearing princess crown

Alora, Sloan and Scarlett

Sloan and Scarlett at pumpkin patch

Chris Kidwell

Chris posing with his son Carter

Naomi James

2023 Real Woman Naomi James

Dianne Ruiz

Real Woman 2022 Dianne Ruiz

Victoria Rodriguez

Victoria holding her pregnant belly

Ceirra Zeager

2023 Real Woman Ceirra Zeager

Hunter Appleton

Hunter in his graduation gown

Claudia Norman

Real Woman 2022 Claudia Norman

CHD Survivor Victoria Rodriguez Video Diaries

CHD and Mental Well-being

The Ãå±±ÊÓÆµ advocates for mental health support for all people with congenital heart defects (CHD). Hear from survivors, parents and a leading researcher on the connection between CHD and mental well-being. This special conversation was hosted by TikTok star and CHD survivor JT Laybourne and part of the Ãå±±ÊÓÆµâ€™s alliance with the Children’s Heart Foundation.

Tools and Resources for CHD Survivors and their Families

NEW! Questions expectant mothers can ask their doctors about CHD at different points in their pregnancies.
Ariel sitting on exam table at doctor office

In the News

CHD stories about people, science and health
Read more CHD news

Apoyo que lo eleva

La recuperación de una afección cardíaca se vuelve mucho más manejable cuando tiene el tipo correcto de apoyo emocional. Somos una comunidad en línea de pacientes, sobrevivientes y cuidadores que saben lo que está pasando y pueden ayudarlo a encontrar su punto de apoyo en el camino hacia una mejor salud.
human ladder to climb a wall