Roman Guerra

This April 22nd, our son Roman turns three — a milestone that once felt impossible. As we celebrate his life, strength, and resilience, we’re asking friends, family, and compassionate hearts to join us in honoring him in a way that can help change lives.

At just 17 months old, Roman underwent an incredibly rare and life-altering surgery: a double valve replacement — a feat requiring the Ross procedure, typically reserved for only the most complex and severe cases. Roman was born with congenital aortic stenosis, a rare and serious heart defect in which the aortic valve is narrowed, restricting blood flow from the heart to the rest of the body. Without early diagnosis, intervention, and access to skilled pediatric cardiac care, this condition can be fatal.

We are beyond blessed. Roman not only survived — he is thriving. His laughter fills our home, his energy keeps us on our toes, and his heart — once so fragile — now beats strong with the help of medical advancements, relentless doctors, and our unwavering faith.

But not every child is as fortunate.

Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common birth defect in the United States, affecting 1 in 100 babies — and yet, funding and research still fall short. Many children around the world don’t have access to the life-saving procedures Roman received. Many families don’t know what to do, where to go, or how to hope.

That’s why this year, instead of gifts, we are humbly asking that anyone who wishes to honor Roman’s 3rd birthday consider donating to the Children’s Heart Foundation — an organization dedicated to funding the most promising research to advance the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of congenital heart defects.

Every dollar raised goes toward giving children like Roman a fighting chance at life — a future filled with birthdays, laughter, and love.

Roman is rare. His condition is rare. But his story doesn’t have to be. We dream of a world where more children survive CHDs because of groundbreaking research and accessible care. This is how we want to honor Roman: by helping other heart warriors fight with the same strength and support that helped save our son.

Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts,

Romans Mom, Dad & little brother Ryder ❤️ 

The Children's Heart Foundation was founded in 1996 and is the country's leading organization solely dedicated to funding congenital heart defect (CHD) research. 

Our mission is to advance the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of congenital heart defects by funding the most promising research.