Resilience in Motion: The Unseen Struggles of Adult Life with Congenital Heart Defects

Heart to Heart with Anna

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Navigating life with congenital heart defects (CHD) is a journey of resilience and emotional fortitude. As I converse with my fellow heart mom, Rita Scoggins, we unearth the layers of complexity that come with raising adult children affected by CHD. This episode goes beyond the clinical; it’s an intimate foray into the emotional and logistical preparations for life's greatest certainties, including power-of-attorney arrangements and will preparations, while also considering the implications for our adult children and beloved pets upon our passing.

Segment 2 showcases co-editors Megan Tones and Anna Jaworski reading Chapter 2 of The Heart of a Heart Warrior Volume One: Survival

The heart of the chapter beats to the rhythm of personal stories that exemplify the myriad ways individuals with CHD find identity and purpose. From Hope’s inspiring transition and embrace of her true self as a transgender woman, to Jason Crutchley's dedication to volunteerism, and Christie Sillman's leap into a nursing career, these narratives are a testament to the strength found in the CHD community. These journeys illuminate how our warriors, often dubbed so for their battles against physical conditions, also strive for agency and the power of choice in defining their lives.

Segment 3 showcases the first two essays from Chapter 3 of The Heart of a Heart Warrior Volume One: Survival

Physical activity, often seen as a mountain too high for those with CHD, emerges as a pinnacle of personal triumph in these essays. Lorrie Hill's career pivot, and Michael Hills' adaptation to sports outside his initial dreams, are stories that underscore the tenacity of the human spirit. These anecdotes are not just about overcoming limitations, but about redefining personal goals and embracing one's passions, all while living with the realities of a congenital heart condition. Join us for this heartfelt exploration of life's challenges and victories.

Won’t you join us while we discuss these essays in our next Book Study? Co-editors Megan Tones and Anna Jaworski are joined by contributors to the book and others who want to discuss the topics raised in the book. These 1-hour sessions take place on Zoom. Visit Baby Hearts Press for more information.

Did you miss hearing Chapter One or the Front Matter of the book? Here are the links:

Front matter (Foreword, Preface, and Introduction): http://tinyurl.com/H2HwAnnaE434

Chapter 1: http://tinyurl.com/H2HandChapter1

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Capitole

1. H2HwAnna and The Heart of a Heart Warrior Volume One: Survival Chapter 2 (and part of Chapter 3) (00:00:00)

2. Segment 2 -- Chapter 2 from "The Heart of a Heart Warrior" (00:14:45)

3. Not a Heart Warrior by Hope Jaworski (00:18:29)

4. How My CHD Defines Me by Jason Crutchley (00:24:14)

5. Finding Myself Through Service to Others by Christy Sillman, NP (00:29:03)

6. Chapter 3 Being Active with CHD (00:36:42)

7. For the Love of Exercise by Lorrie Hill (00:40:06)

8. Feeling Normal Through Sports by Michael Hills (00:50:03)