Navigating Life with Congenital Heart Disease: A Personal Journey

Living with congenital heart disease can be a challenging journey, filled with ups and downs, but it is a journey that can be navigated with strength, resilience, and a positive outlook. For those who have been diagnosed with this condition, every heartbeat serves as a reminder of the importance of self-care, regular check-ups, and a supportive network of loved ones and healthcare professionals.

My journey with congenital heart disease sheds light on the everyday struggles and triumphs faced by those living with this condition. From the anxiety of facing surgical procedures to the joy of achieving new milestones, each moment is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

It is important for individuals with congenital heart disease to find a balance between taking care of their physical health and nurturing their mental well-being. This balance can be achieved through regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, stress management techniques, and open communication with healthcare providers.

Navigating life with congenital heart disease also means being proactive about seeking out the best medical care available. Finding a team of specialists who are experienced in treating congenital heart conditions can make a world of difference in managing the disease effectively. Despite the challenges that come with congenital heart disease, it is possible to live a full and fulfilling life. By staying informed, connected, and proactive, individuals with this condition can embrace each day with hope and determination.

I was born a two-pound premie in Denver, Colorado, and had my first open heart surgery at one-month-old, which led to a crippled left arm. I had another at two years old, which required me to have a pacemaker, then another at four years old, and the final open heart surgery was when I was seven years old when I received two mechanical heart valves and began taking warfarin. That was not all. Since then, I have had six other heart surgeries for battery and pacemaker replacements.

Despite all of this, I have earned two Bachelor's Degrees and 5 certificates, and I am working on my Master's Degree. Furthermore, while I was born in the USA, I have spent the better part of my adult life studying, living, and working abroad in China and Germany.

To me, my achievements in both academia and world-wandering are equally as valuable as the scars that made me. It has taken me all these years to realize that I chose this life not in spite of my congenital heart disease but because of it. I had to prove that it could be done. It is the ticking heart inside my chest that both physically, mentally, and emotionally propels me forward and does not hold me back.

On "The Ever-Ticking Heart" blog, stories like these come to life, offering a platform for individuals to share their experiences, find comfort in shared struggles, and celebrate victories, big and small. Through informative articles, personal anecdotes, and engaging Instagram content, the blog aims to create a warm and inviting space for individuals with congenital heart disease to connect, learn, and find support.

Join us on this journey of hope, humor, and understanding as we navigate life with congenital heart disease together. Remember, every heartbeat is a reminder of the strength that lies within each of us.