Being hospitalized is one of the scariest moments in a person’s life. This is especially true for parents and caregivers of children who have been hospitalized—and, of course, for patients who are severely ill or undergoing surgery.
We at the CHD Coalition have been there, too. We have experienced the magnitude of emotions that forever changed our lives. we provide various services to the local hospitals that have a dedicated pediatric cardiology surgical program.
One of our most important goals is to bring hope to the family affected and the CHD survivor who is hospitalized. To let them know that they are not alone, and that a large community of Heart Families is ready to offer support, any way we can. The CHD Coalition visits several hospitals on a recurring basis to meet with families and patients. We provide a shoulder to lean on—someone to share in the journey ahead.
While never a replacement for a doctor’s diagnosis and professional medical care, peer support with an individual who has personal experience with congenital heart defects is an invaluable resource for families and patients.
As another way we bring comfort to the families while in the hospital, the CHD Coalition delivers over 500 Heart Totes a year to 8 hospitals located in the NY/NJ area. For a patient admitted at one of those hospitals, our CHD Heart Tote will be provide by the hospital’s social worker or child life specialist.
The tote contains numerous items designed to ease a family’s hospital stay, as well as informational resources to help guide families during this traumatic time. Most importantly, these totes deliver the message that you are not alone and that there is hope.
We lead fundraisers, connect with hospitals, and spread the message of hope—but we can’t do it without the generous support of people like you. By donating or volunteering, you can change the lives of families and children across the globe.
