As a CHD survivor born with undiagnosed TAPVR, the heart community has always been very important to me. I grew up with routine doctors appointments and many questions from my peers about the scar on my chest. I listened to my family’s story of my diagnosis and repair and the impact it had on them as they navigated life with an infant unexpectedly needing open heart surgery. It took me a few years as child to finally understand the significance of that scar and the journey that I overcame as a baby.

My passion for supporting the CHD community continued to grow as I attended nursing school and began my professional career in the pediatric cardiac ICU at MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital where I have had the absolute honor of guiding other CHD warriors and their families through the journey of diagnosis, repair and beyond. 

Running the NYC Marathon as a member of the Hearts that Race team is just one more way I can give back to the CHD community by raising more awareness. It is an honor to run this marathon as a member of such a great team - showing strength for of all my heart warriors earth side and remembering all my heart angels in heaven. 

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