Congenital Heart Defects (CHDs) are conditions that are present at birth that can affect the structure of a baby's heart and the way it works. As medical care and treatments have advanced, infants with congenital heart defects are living longer and healthier lives.
CHDs are the most common type of birth defect. Nearly 1 in 100 babies are born with a heart defect in the United States each year. About 1 in 4 of these babies are diagnosed with a critical heart defect requiring surgery within the first year of their life.
On May 25, 2021, we welcomed our son- Loui Patrick Fugleberg. Loui was born with multiple critical heart defects- Interrupted Aortic Arch, ventricular septal defect, atrial septal defect, and bicuspid mitral valve. Loui required life-saving open heart surgery at just seven days old.
Having a child affected by CHD forced us to enter a world we never thought we would be a part of. He is the reason we fight to improve and extend the lives of millions born with heart defects through education, advocacy, and research.
The Heart Walk is a time of celebration, joy, and inspiration. A time where we can work together to raise awareness of CHD. Fight for improved prenatal diagnosis, access to top cardiac programs/surgeons, and creation of nationwide supporting care services/programs for these medically complex children.
WE ARE A RELENTLESS FORCE.
It's your turn. Be a relentless force. Be a supporter of critical research. Be a lifesaver. Be a part of an unstoppable team. Join us now and walk to improve and save lives.
Thank you for loving and supporting our family!