AWARENESS 101
Hidden Heroes
-A baby with CHD is born every 15 minutes in the U.S.
-More than 1.4 million adults are living with CHD every year in the U.S.
-These children and adults face challenges under the radar, even during National
Heart Month when acquired heart disease is front and center.
-Research for CHD is grossly underfunded.
(CDC)
Hidden Challenges and Loss
-CHD is the number #1 cause of birth-defect related deaths for children.
-CHD family members are 30% more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety.
-Heart Warriors are 50% more likely to receive special education services when compared
to children without birth defects
-Once they reach adulthood, close to 50% of Heart Warriors report having a mood or
anxiety disorder.
-It is estimated that only 10% of adult Heart Warriors receive the cardiac care that they
need.
-More than 30% of adolescents are lost to care.
-The families of Heart Warriors face multiple challenges. Unexpected costs such as co-
pays, out-of-pocket deductibles, the cost of traveling, and medication expenses cause
financial problems that are often exasperated by the need to resign from or reduce hours
at work to care for their child. This contributes to their quality of life when combined with
the stress of having a child with special health needs.
(CDC)
What Can We Do?
-Talk to your legislators about CHD awareness and funding for research and resources.
-Sign petitions to increase awareness, research and resources for CHD.
-Donate to organizations that concentrate on CHD only. A very small percentage of the
American Heart Association's funding goes to CHD.
-If you know someone who has been impacted by CHD, ask them how you can help.
-Support and follow CHD organizations on social media. Share their posts!
Partner with Victoria Ciara Foundation
We are always looking for new partners when it comes to awareness and resources.
Contact us with your ideas on ways that we can collaborate.