News from the Heart: November 2024

Funding Research from the Heart

For nearly three decades, The Children’s Heart Foundation has been the nation's leader in the field of congenital heart defect research…and it’s all thanks to you.

We're proud to be launching our "Funding Research from the Heart" campaign to raise more funds for life-changing research. This campaign is more than just a fundraiser; it's a crucial part of our mission to support the most promising research into congenital heart defects. From now until the end of the year, our annual giving campaign offers you a unique opportunity to join us in this vital effort and make a significant impact.

The revolutionary breakthroughs of tomorrow depend on what you do today. Will you be a “Heart Champion” and help fund this essential research? Your generosity and commitment to our cause are invaluable.

DONATE NOW

By supporting The Children's Heart Foundation, you become an integral part of a larger purpose that brings hope and healing to children and families impacted by congenital heart defects.?Thank you for being part of this important mission.

In the Community: Remembering & Honoring Heart Angel Cici

Cecilia "Cici" Faye Severs was born on August 29, 2024, at just 33 weeks—a tiny fighter from the start. Shortly after her arrival, her family received life-changing news: Cici had been born with a congenital heart defect called truncus arteriosus. Despite her incredible strength and the tireless efforts of her medical team, Cici passed away on October 8th, surrounded by her parents and grandparents.

Her family is now honoring Cici’s legacy by supporting the work of The Children’s Heart Foundation in order to fund additional - and much-needed - CHD research.

"As one of the doctors told us, although treatment for congenital heart disease has improved drastically over the last 50 years, the science is still relatively new, and there are still kids like Cici who manage to puzzle and challenge the doctors. Some procedures, like her flow restrictor placement, are still developing rapidly and there are currently no devices designed for babies and children, and the surgeons must manipulate equipment designed for adults."

You can read Cici's story and visit their fundraising page here .

Your Support in Action: Dr. Rodefeld's Fontan Pump

Thanks to our incredible supporters and donors, The Children's Heart Foundation has been able to support groundbreaking research, like Dr. Mark Rodefeld's project on developing an implantable, internally powered Fontan pump. This promising technology has the potential to significantly improve the quality of life and extend the lifespan of patients with a single functional ventricle.

Watch the video below to hear Dr. Rodefeld explain the prototype of the pump, his vision for the future, and how funding from CHF has helped move this work forward.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook , Instagram , and X (Twitter) . Visit our website to learn more about our mission, how to get involved, or to make a donation: https://www.childrensheartfoundation.org