Ruling Out Heart Challenges for my Kids

Phew, what a month! The Boston Congenital Heart Walk just finished, my oldest will be home tomorrow after her first year of college, and spring and all its outside work is upon us. But today I will experience a role reversal of sorts as I bring my youngest daughter to the cardiologist.

Having a heart defect, I knew my two biological children had an increased risk of their own CHD. Alex, my oldest, went for a stress test after she took up running in her early teens. My cardiac history was the reason, and all was fine. Abi, now 10, has her appointment today. Again, because of my history, but unlike Alex, she has had a few symptoms. Most likely, these will be attributed to something else, but I am looking forward to getting the all clear from the cardiologist. I know there are those defects that go undetected until the body puts demands on the heart, and I will be relieved to rule them out.

Growing up with CHD, I have my own perspective having experienced and endured firsthand all that comes with this chronic illness. As a mom, I have been thankful my kids have not had to deal with those same experiences. While I would not change my life for any other, it is because it’s all I know. Growing up with CHD is not the life they have experienced, and it would bring a big change for them.

All of my girls are strong. I know that whatever gets thrown their way—including a heart challenge—they will endure. I just don’t want them to have to.

So, hopefully by the time this blog is posted, we will be on our way home with Abi, heart healthy. And then back to the garden.