Oregon/SW Washington Congenital Heart Walk

I want to express my heartfelt thanks for taking a moment to visit my fundraising page.

This Saturday, we will be walking together for the first time in the Children’s Heart Foundation Congenital Heart Walk. Every 15 minutes in the United States, a baby is born with a congenital heart defect, making CHDs the most common birth defect in our country. The Congenital Heart Walk is dedicated to making a difference. Our mission is clear - we aim to raise funds to support The Children's Heart Foundation in its quest to advance the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of CHDs by funding groundbreaking research.

This cause is very personal for us because our sweet Emilia Grace was born in June with a rare and life-threatening congenital heart defect called Pulmonary Atresia with Intact Ventricular Septum. Her condition turned our entire world upside down and led to us San Diego and Rady Children’s Hospital in order to give her the best shot at a full and happy life. She underwent two heart procedures in the first three days of her life, and another just a few weeks ago. Unfortunately, we have another just on the horizon. This condition has brought us challenges as a family that we never imagined we’d face, but we’ve found strength in the support and prayers from our friends and family, our amazing medical team, organizations life the Children’s Heart Foundation and in Emilia’s incredible resilience at such a young age.

We’re participating in the CHF walk to raise funds and awareness for children battling congenital heart defects. Without the research, medical advancements, and the support CHF provides, Emilia and so many other heart warriors would face an even steeper uphill battle.

Every dollar raised from the walk will go towards funding research, improving medical care and offering hope to families like ours. We’ve seen firsthand the life-saving impact that research and support can provide. Emilia has a long road ahead, but with your help, we can continue fighting for a future where children with congenital heart defects have the chance to live long, healthy lives.

Thanks for your consideration, love, support and generosity. Your kindness means the world to us, and so many other facing these challenges.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Melissa

Emilia’s Mom