February 14th typically kicks of Congenital Heart Defect Awareness week. So I like to do my annual education to others about this disease. Two and a half years ago, my little man was born with Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA). We found out at my 5 month ultrasound and the birth and surgery were planned for Boston. He had open heart surgery at 2 days old and has basically never looked back. Never does a day go by, however, when I don't think of all we went through with him, and how he has come out a fighter. I am so proud or our little miracle and know his story has and will touch other people's lives. Above is a picture of Zachary's heart block that travels around the world on a heart quilt with other CHD children and adults.
Here are some CHD facts:
* What is a congenital heart defect?
Congenital means it is present at birth. Heart defects begin in the early stages of pregnancy when the baby's heart is forming.
* How many babies are born with CHD?
Approximately 40,000 babies are born each year in the United States with a CHD. That equates to 1 out of 125 babies born with a heart defect. It is the #1 birth defect with more occurrences than Spina Bifida, Down syndrome or hearing loss yet many are not aware of this condition.
* What is the number one birth defect?
Congenital heart defects.
*How many kinds of CHD are there?
There are approximately 35 different types of congenital heart defects.
* How are congenital heart defects treated?
Today, most heart defects can be corrected or helped with surgery, medicine, or devices, such as artificial valves and pacemakers. In the last 25 years, advances in treatment of heart defects have enabled half a million U.S. children with significant heart defects to survive into adulthood.
This brings me to my newest platform of advocating for women who are or are planning on becoming pregnant to make sure you are getting the right amount and the right KIND of folic acid. The heart forms in the very early stages of pregnancy - usually when you aren't even aware you are pregnant - and relies on folic acid for healthy development. If you are taking an over the counter tablet form of a prenatal vitamin, you are not getting enough. There are other ways and other formats of vitamins to ensure you are getting what you need. Please let me know if I can educate you more on this.
I could not imagine life without our baby boy - he is such a blessing!
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