CCF HEART KIDS
These are some of the kids that inspire us to work harder everyday. Read their stories and join us in the fight against pediatric cardiomyopathy – the number one cause of heart transplants and sudden cardiac arrest in the young.
Hypertrophic
Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Graham combines humor with heart. His dry wit draws people in, and his steady presence shows he can always be counted on. Active at school, on the golf course, and in his community, he leads with quiet strength. Monitored since childhood due to a family history of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and a TNNT2 mutation, he was later diagnosed and developed ventricular tachycardia, leading to the implantation of a cardioverter-defibrillator.
Left Ventricular Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy (LVNC)
Olivia is an endlessly enthusiastic dinosaur lover with a zest for every new adventure. She’s happiest anywhere there is macaroni and cheese. A routine visit for an ear infection revealed a heart murmur. Cardiology evaluation found a patent ductus arteriosus, non-compaction cardiomyopathy, and later dilated cardiomyopathy. After her PDA closure last year, her family works closely with a cardiology team to monitor her heart function with care together.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Louis loves running with friends, playing with cars, and building with magnetic tiles. He enjoys reading with mom, dad, and his little sister, Adele. Two weeks after his third birthday, a routine checkup revealed a heart murmur, leading to a diagnosis of dilated cardiomyopathy. Louis was immediately hospitalized, began medication right away, and has taken it bravely every day since, with courage, resilience, and support from his family.
Hypertrophic (HCM) and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Bennett is a makeup enthusiast who loves a curly hair routine and all things pink. She’s happiest at the beach or in the water and has a deep love for animals, caring for many pets at home. Diagnosed in 2023 with hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathy caused by myocarditis, Bennett is protected by an S-ICD and manages her condition with daily medications and lifestyle adjustments.
To meet more Heart Kids, click here.