Congenital Heart Disease
More than 40,000 babies are born with congenital heart defects every year. These heart defects are usually present at birth and can be mild to severe. According to kidshealth.org, 8 in 1,000 newborns have congenital heart defects.
Jennifer Page’s son Max is required to have a new pace maker put in every 6-8 years because he was born with a congenital heart defect. Jennifer says she had no idea anything was wrong with her son prior to his birth.
Jennifer says Max cannot do contact sports, but he is still able to live his full life. He plays golf, baseball, swimming, and has lots of friends.
Dr. David Ferry, cardiologist at the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles where Max has his surgeries, says that congenital heart defects are usually diagnosed before the baby has symptoms. David said it’s usually noticed by a murmur, poor feeding, or a blue color after birth.
St. Jude Medical and Mended Little Hearts have a great partnership. If parents have questions or need information, David encourages families to go to sjm.com/weheartkids.
March of Dimes
Melanie Holt and Carey Biscoe, Co-chairs for Worcester County March for Babies, tells us about March of Dimes. Melanie says that she went into premature labor with her twins and they spent a lot of time in the Nic-U. Melanie’s twin girls were pretty healthy even though they were born early.
March of Dimes C.A.R.E.S.
C – Community grants
A – Advocacy
R – Research
E – Education
S – Support
Carey says you can help by coming out to the walk. She says to bring your kids and enjoy the day as a family supporting a great cause. Melanie says if you are dealing with premature birth of your children, to educate yourself and know that the March of Dimes is there for support.
March of Dimes: Assateague
When: Saturday, May 2
Where: Assateague State Park
Time: Registration begins at 9 a.m., Walk begins at 10 a.m.
March of Dimes: Mid-Shore
When: Sunday, May 3
Where: Preston Rd., Hurlock, Md.
Time: Registration begins at noon, Walk begins at 1 p.m.
