Every year, me and other friends and family participate in the Atlanta Congenital Heart Walk in honor of my daughter, Hadley Grace.
Hadley was born at 42 weeks with congenital heart defects that we did not know about before she was born. What should have been one of the happiest days of our lives very quickly became something no family is ever prepared for. We had an incredibly short amount of time with her before we lost her.
A huge part of why this cause means so much to us is knowing how different things can look when heart defects are identified earlier, when the right specialists and resources are available immediately. I truly believe when families have access to the research and treatment options they need outcomes could be so much different. In Hadley’s case, her heart defects were unexpected, and there were questions afterward about whether earlier recognition and a different plan of care could have changed the outcome.
That is why congenital heart defect research to increase the chances of early detection and access to proper treatment matter so much. The money raised goes toward heart research, awareness, and support for children and families affected by heart disease and congenital heart defects.
Walking is just one small way I can honor Hadley, keep her memory alive, and do something meaningful in her name.
Every donation means a lot to me and my family, and most of all, it means helping continue the work being done for babies and children born with heart defects. ❤️
