My son, Declan, was born with a CHD called Tetralogy of Fallot. The four markers of TOF are VSD, pulmonary valve stenosis, overriding aorta, and right ventricular hypertrophy. This CHD occurs in about 1 out of every 2500 babies born in the US each year and is the most common cyanotic congenital heart condition. TOF requires open heart surgery within the first year of life to correct the defects in order to provide the chance for survival and better quality of life given the significant impact on the heart providing oxygenated blood to the body.

Declan had his first open heart surgery at 10 weeks old. He is now 8 months old and thriving! We are beyond grateful for his surgical team at Golisano Children's Hospital in Rochester, NY and his pediatric cardiologist, who continues to monitor his condition. He will likely require another OHS when he gets older as well.

I walk for my brave heart warrior, Declan, and for the 40,000 children born with CHDs each year (1 in every 100 births!). Please join me in support for the American Heart Association as they continue to fund research for CHDs and heart conditions as well as support heart families in many ways.