Empowering Families Through Support and Education Mended Little Hearts Empowering Families Through Support and Education

Your baby has a congenital heart defect. Each year in the U.S., about 40,000 families will hear these words: Your baby has a congenital heart defect.

Common Reactions Grief Fear Anger Confusion Guilt Loneliness--wanting to connect with others who have “been there”

Mended Little Hearts Is There National program whose mission is to empower families affected by congenital heart disease Began in 2004 with 2 groups—now has 86 groups in 30 states & DC Community-based & volunteer-led Works with hospitals and medical professionals to provide services for families that compliment medical care

Hope, Help, Healing Peer-to-peer support Families can connect with others who truly understand because they have similar experiences Members share experiences to help them find answers to non-medical questions and learn to live with CHD The Accredited Visiting Program supports families with kids in the hospital

Hope, Help, Healing Education Coming soon—the digital Little HeartGuide Parent Resource Webinars on topics families need Emails with tools and tips for families Educational programs in our communities to give families needed information

Hope, Help, Healing Connection with resources Local groups connect families with needed resources in their area National website contains resources to help families care for a child with congenital heart disease throughout his or her lifetime

Hope, Help, Healing Bravery Bag Program Bravery Bags are given to families in the hospital Bravery Bags contain toiletry & comfort items along with educational materials Families know they are not alone

Hope, Help, Healing Awareness National and local CHD Awareness Activities Rock Your Scar Campaign to empower kids and adults with CHD Roar ‘N Run Virtual Charity Race Local group activities

Hope, Help, Healing Advocacy Advisors about Family-Centered Care Promote CHD Research Funding Promote CHD Surveillance Support Pulse Oximetry Screening Support CPR in Schools Speak on issues that impact our families

THANK YOU!