Survivor Stories

Through Kids Heart Challenge, kids learn jump rope skills, how their heart works and raise money to help kids with special hearts. Have fun, learn how to stay healthy and make a difference in the lives of others!

Heart Hero Finn, Age 3

This is Finn. When his mom was pregnant, doctors found big problems with Finn’s tiny heart. (That’s why his parents named him Finley it means “Warrior.”) Finn has had 14 surgeries in his short life, but you’d never know it seeing Finn’s amazing smile. Today, Finn and his mom travel to schools to inspire kids to take care of their own hearts!

Laney, 3 years old, Virginia

Laney was born with four congenital heart defects that went undetected from the time she was born until she was 7 days old. “At 2 weeks old, she had a 10-hour open heart surgery that ultimately ended with her having to be monitored for the rest of her life,” said her mom, Stephanie. This lifesaving surgery was made possible by donors and supporters like you investing in the future of cardiac medicine.

Watch Laney’s story: heart.org/laney