On September 29, 2013 the Congenital Heart Defect Coalition (CHD Coalition) achieved record-breaking results at its 6th annual CHD Awareness walk by having nearly 950 attendees and raising over $100,000. Proceeds from the Walk are used to fund critical research programs for congenital heart defects, to offer scholarships to CHD Survivors, and to provide ongoing support of families affected by a CHD.
The day started with a ceremony honoring the CHD children who have passed. After heart-felt words of encouragement from Kim Shadek, CHD Coalition Executive Director, each family member released a live butterfly as a powerful yet beautiful symbol of remembrance and love.
Following the Butterfly Release Ceremony, the 72 teams in attendance started the walk around the Wild Duck Pond located in Ridgewood, NJ. Each team represented a special person born with a congenital heart defect. The children had a fun-filled day with carnival games, pumpkin & face painting, balloon artists, and other crafts and activities. Live music was performed throughout the day by the Sixteen String Band.
The event’s premier contributing sponsors were All Wet Irrigation of Dover, NJ; Schiavone Construction of Secaucus, NJ; Lakeland Pools of Vernon, NJ; Russo Real Estate of Teaneck, NJ; and Hudson Drugs of Creskill, NJ. In-kind sponsors were InSerra Shoprite of Mahwah, NJ; BJ’s Wholesale of Paramus, NJ; Cafasso’s Fairway Market of Fort Lee, NJ; CTC Party Entertainment of Jersey City, NJ; Parties by Janelle of Oakland, NJ; Glitter Tattoos by Pigtails of Hasbrouck Heights, NJ; Photography by Herb Roberts; Richard Bryce Photography; and Mikifoto by Mallika Malhotra; and The Sixteen String Band.
About CHD Coalition
The Congenital Heart Defect Coalition is dedicated to improving the quality of life for those affected by congenital heart defects. The three main pillars of the CHD Coalition’s mission are focused on uniting and supporting the CHD community, increasing public awareness, and raising money for lifesaving research.
Founded in 2011 in Butler, New Jersey, the Congenital Heart Defect Coalition is a 501(c)(3) registered charitable organization that is 100% volunteer run. All money raised goes directly to its mission. The organization is run by a collaboration of parents of children born with a CHD, CHD Survivors, pediatric cardiologists and nurses, and caring individuals dedicated to the cause. Additional information about the programs and events sponsored by the CHD Coalition can be found at www.CHDCoalition.org.
Media Contact
Mike Laub
[email protected]
(646) 357-2984