Heart to Heart with Anna

• When Hearts and Minds Unite: Navigating Neurodevelopment in CHD

  Send us a textThe journey of raising a child with a critical congenital heart defect (CCHD) involves navigating far more than just medical challenges. Behind every heart surgery and cardiology appointment lies a complex web of developmental considerations that can profoundly shape a child's future.Dr. Dawn Ilardi, a clinical neuropsychologist with over 16 years of experience in cardiac neurodevelopment, brings clarity to this often-overlooked aspect of heart care. Unlike typical developmental patterns, children with CCHDs may present with scattered strengths and weaknesses that don't fit neatly into standard diagnostic categories. While some may develop recognizable conditions like ADHD, autism, or dyslexia, others show unique profiles that require specialized understanding.The conversation explores the fascinating heart-brain connection, revealing how brain development begins simultaneously with heart formation during fetal development. Structural heart defects can affect blood flow patterns to the developing brain, while surgical interventions carry risks of small strokes or other brain injuries. For parents wondering why their child struggles with handwriting, speech delays, or learning difficulties despite excellent medical care, this discussion provides crucial insights.Particularly compelling is the discussion about balancing protection with developmental progress. How do you navigate the tension between keeping a medically fragile child safe while ensuring they develop age-appropriate skills and independence? Dr. Ilardi offers practical strategies for finding this balance, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive "village" around both the child and parents.Whether you're a parent, medical professional, or educator working with heart warriors, this profound conversation will transform your understanding of the developmental journey these remarkable children face. Most importantly, you'll discover pathways to help them reach their full potential through multisensory learning approaches, compensatory strategies, and family-centered support.Helpful Links:Christy Pace's CHD Connects Hearts: https://chdconnectshearts.com/homeDawn Ilardi's other Heart to Heart with Anna Appearances:Unlocking Neurodevelopmental Breakthroughs: Impact of CHDs and Parental Influence https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/episodes/15872291What is Normal Child Development in Children with Complex Congenital Heart Defects? https://tinyurl.com/DawnIlardi2014  Dr. Ilardi's website: https://www.pedneurocenter.com  Dr. Ilardi's email: [email protected] Issues and Feeding Tubes in the CHD Community: https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/episodes/1999819Sheri Turner is our newest Defender Patron and she also serves as a HUG Volunteer. Thank you so much for your generosity and all you do, Sheri!Support the showAnna's Buzzsprout Affiliate LinkBaby Blue Sound CollectiveSocial Media Pages:Apple PodcastsFacebookInstagramMeWeTwitterYouTubeWebsite

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• From Tetralogy of Fallot to Changing State Law: Sara Bonneau's Unstoppable Mission

  Send us a textWhen Sara Bonneau's newborn son was diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot, she had no roadmap for the journey ahead. In this raw and powerful conversation, she takes us through the evolution of parenting a child with a serious heart defect—from the terrifying early days without social media support groups to watching her son become a competitive high school basketball player.Sara's candor about her mental health struggles resonates deeply as she shares her delayed PTSD diagnosis following her son's first surgery. "I experienced a lot of anxiety after Ryan was born. I remember being so scared he was going to die if I let him out of my sight," she reveals, encouraging other heart parents to seek help sooner than she did.The conversation takes a powerful turn when Sara describes how tragedy became the catalyst for her unexpected advocacy work. After Sara discovered a 15-year-old basketball player in her son's rival team collapsed and died, she discovered there was no AED available that might have saved his life. Despite having no legal background, this special education teacher successfully campaigned for Rhode Island legislation requiring AEDs in all middle and high schools.Her message to listeners facing their own struggles is beautifully simple: "Your voice matters. I was just a mom. I had a voice. I made a very significant change for student athletes and children in Rhode Island just by sharing my story and speaking from the heart." Sara's journey from terrified parent to legislative changemaker demonstrates how we can transform our deepest fears into purposeful action.Whether you're a heart parent seeking connection, an advocate looking for inspiration, or someone navigating the healthcare system, Sara's story will remind you of the incredible power one determined voice can have. Subscribe now and join our community of families and professionals dedicated to improving lives in the congenital heart defect world.Helpful Links:Diane Pucci's episodes: The Miracle of Growing Up with a CHD: https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/episodes/398967Voices of Victory: Overcoming Congenital Heart Challenges: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/voices-of-victory-overcoming-congenital-heart-challenges--58745010Discord Server Link: https://discord.gg/WZwQf7pPM8CardioHUB 2025 link: https://www.cardiologyconferenceeurope.com/HUG website link: https://www.heartsunitetheglobe.comSheri Turner is our newest Defender Patron and she also serves as a HUG Volunteer. Thank you so much for your generosity and all you do, Sheri!Support the showAnna's Buzzsprout Affiliate LinkBaby Blue Sound CollectiveSocial Media Pages:Apple PodcastsFacebookInstagramMeWeTwitterYouTubeWebsite

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• How Research is Reshaping Lives in Congenital Heart Disease

  Send us a textIn this engaging episode of Heart to Heart with Anna, we dive into the significant strides made in pediatric cardiology, focusing on hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) and the inspiring journey of dedicated professionals like Dr. Paul Grossfeld. This episode highlights the complex nature of congenital heart disease, exploring not just the technical advancements in surgical techniques and post-operative care, but also the emotional journeys faced by families. Dr. Grossfeld shares powerful stories from his practice, illustrating the deep connections formed between healthcare providers and patients.Listeners will learn about the critical role of early diagnostics and how modern medicine has transformed the fatality rates associated with HLHS. The episode discusses the collaborative efforts across medical disciplines, which lead to innovative treatment and significant improvements in patient outcomes. With a keen focus on the importance of research to address genetic and environmental influences on heart conditions, Dr. Grossfeld emphasizes the need for community support in fundraising and awareness initiatives.As the conversation shifts toward the importance of heart screenings for athletes, listeners will discover how these measures can prevent tragic outcomes and promote healthy practices among young sports enthusiasts. We encourage our audience to reflect on their understanding of pediatric heart health and to become advocates for research and support within the community. Join us in this eye-opening episode that aims not only to inform but to inspire action among listeners who share a commitment to the congenital heart disease community. Subscribe, share, and engage with us to help uplift and empower those affected by these conditions.Here are some helpful links mentioned in this episode:HeartWorks: https://www.webuildhearts.orgDr. Paul Grossfeld's charities: Light the Way: https://radyfoundation.org/get-involved/events/light-the-way/Miracle Makers: https://radyfoundation.org/ways-to-give/fundraise/miracle-makers/Hearts Unite the Globe (HUG): https://www.heartsunitetheglobe.comSupport the showAnna's Buzzsprout Affiliate LinkBaby Blue Sound CollectiveSocial Media Pages:Apple PodcastsFacebookInstagramMeWeTwitterYouTubeWebsite

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• Navigating Personal Advocacy: Empowering Journeys in Heart Health with Emily Falcon and Anna Jaworski

  Send us a textEmily Falcon's journey with a rare heart condition is nothing short of inspiring. After multiple heart surgeries, she defied the odds and became a dedicated 5K athlete, showcasing resilience that many find empowering. Joined by Jenn Dimas from the Fort Worth Public Library, Emily shares how literature has been a powerful companion in navigating her chronic illness. This episode also shines a light on Heart Month, weaving in personal traditions and cherished memories, such as honoring a mother's legacy through an annual cruise.Anna Jaworski, a mother to a single ventricle heart survivor, shares her story of advocacy through Baby Hearts Press, a publishing company she founded to offer resources for families dealing with congenital heart defects. Both Emily and Anna emphasize the transformative power of personal narratives in literature, offering hope and strength to those in similar battles. Together, they explore the challenges of accurately representing chronic illnesses in media and the significant impact of personalized doctor-patient relationships, encouraging listeners to become vocal champions for their health needs.Our community extends beyond the airwaves with the launch of an innovative Discord channel, inviting listeners to engage directly with podcast guests like Hope, Rita Scoggins, and Megan Tones. This episode also teases an upcoming interview with Dr. Paul Grossfeld, who will discuss groundbreaking genetic discoveries related to heart conditions. With a focus on building supportive networks and fostering understanding through stories, we invite you to join us as we navigate personal advocacy and collective empowerment in the heart health community.Support the showAnna's Buzzsprout Affiliate LinkBaby Blue Sound CollectiveSocial Media Pages:Apple PodcastsFacebookInstagramMeWeTwitterYouTubeWebsite

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• Uniting Communities for Better Heart Care Outcomes with Kate Doherty-Schmeck

  Send us a textAfter facing the heart-wrenching loss of a beloved family matriarch to a once-benign heart condition, I am reminded of the fragile nature of life and the critical importance of heart health. Join me as we explore these deeply personal connections to heart disease and the heartfelt stories of families who navigate these challenges with resilience and love. This episode kicks off with a touching account of a family who urged me to share their loss hoping it might help another family living with a chronic, untreated heart condition to maintain consistent monitoring, and the efforts of "And Mama Too: a Dash of Love," a non-profit dedicated to supporting postpartum heart and NICU moms.During this episode, you'll meet the inspiring Kate Doherty-Schmeck, Executive Director of Global ARCH, who shares her dedication to transforming outcomes for childhood-onset heart diseases. Kate's insights into the power of global collaboration underscore the immense impact of organizations advocating for improved healthcare access. From the emotional encounter in a Guatemalan hospital to powerful events in Barcelona and Washington, D.C., discover how communities are coming together to fight disparities and ensure that every child receives the care they deserve.As the episode unfolds, I offer encouragement and resources for those touched by congenital heart disease. Whether it's through volunteering with Global ARCH or becoming an empowered advocate, there are myriad ways to contribute to this vital cause. More than just stories, these narratives serve as a clarion call for action, reminding us all of the strength found in community and the enduring spirit of advocacy. Remember to tune in every Tuesday for new episodes filled with heartwarming stories and invaluable insights.Global ARCH link: https://global-arch.org/&Mamatoo: A Dash of Love: https://www.andmamatoo.com/homeSupport the showAnna's Buzzsprout Affiliate LinkBaby Blue Sound CollectiveSocial Media Pages:Apple PodcastsFacebookInstagramMeWeTwitterYouTubeWebsite

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