Joseph's Journey
My son, Joseph, was born in 2017 with a unique and challenging combination of heart conditions: Tetralogy of Fallot, Dextrocardia, Atrial Septal Defect (ASD), and Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD). From the moment he entered this world, I knew his heart was special, both in its challenges and its strength.
At just six months old, Joseph underwent a complex, life-saving surgery in Boston. Thanks to an incredible team of surgeons and medical professionals, the procedure was a success. Joseph’s resilience and determination shone through during his recovery, and he quickly began to show me just how strong his spirit truly is.
Today, Joseph is a vibrant, energetic child who loves to play soccer and baseball. His boundless energy and enthusiasm for life are a testament to his unbreakable spirit. Despite the challenges he’s faced, his courage and determination continue to inspire me every day.
I am deeply grateful to the American Heart Association for their unwavering support in raising awareness about heart health. Joseph’s journey highlights the transformative power of medical advancements and early intervention. By sharing his story, I hope to offer hope and encouragement to families facing similar challenges.
This June, Joseph and I will be participating in the Heart Walk to raise awareness and funding for this important cause. I invite you to join us! Your participation, whether through walking or donating, helps train more people in life-saving CPR, supports critical research, and creates life-saving moments for others.
Important Facts from the American Heart Association:
- 9 out of 10 people who suffer cardiac arrest outside of a hospital do not survive. In many of those cases, bystander CPR was not performed.
- Cardiac arrests can happen anywhere—at work, at home, on athletic fields, or in neighborhoods. The readiness of our community to respond can mean the difference between life and death.
It’s time to take action. Let’s unite, support one another, and save lives.
I hope you’ll join Joseph and me at the Heart Walk in June to help make a difference. Together, we can change the outcome for so many others.
Sign up today and walk with us for a cause that saves lives!
