Nine years ago, my son Jonah entered the world with a ventricular septal defect (VSD), a congenital heart condition that left me facing challenges I never imagined as a new mom.

When Jonah was just six months old, he underwent open-heart surgery. Handing my baby over to a team of surgeons was one of the most terrifying experiences of my life. The fear, uncertainty, and countless prayers are emotions I will never forget.

Thanks to the incredible doctors, nurses, and care teams at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Jonah received the lifesaving treatment he needed. Today, he is a healthy, active, and thriving 9-year-old who fills our lives with joy every single day.

My family's heart journey is why supporting the American Heart Association is so important to me. Research, education, and advancements in pediatric cardiac care change lives. They gave Jonah the chance to grow up healthy, and they continue to give hope to countless families facing similar challenges.

Thank you for supporting this cause and helping create more stories like Jonah's.