I've been honored to work with this team over the past few years to help create a solid organization. Our goals are to help ensure care-givers and patients feel well-equip to advocate for their needs, are able to connect with the wider CHD community in Virginia and beyond, and know how to use their CHD voice to advocate for: transparency between and from hospitals; increased quality-of-care standards across the board; and help bring attention to the serious health care equity gaps that exist. Our team consists of adult CHD patients, CHD parents to of children of all ages and bereaved parents as well. Many work full times jobs or stay at home with young children and still donate their attention and time to this cause - their dedication and passion motivate and inspire me. The only reason I'm giving 4 stars is because I know this team is continually improving and I'm aware of the goals and plans for the next few years which will make CCHD VA even stronger and more impactful in and around Virginia.
I've been working with Conquering CHD - VA now for about three years. It's a great organization and does so much to help the heart community in Virginia. Their resources truly help heart families find support and the care they need. They go above and beyond for families in VA, DC, MD, and WV.
Conquering CHD has been apart of our life since we found out our son had a prenatal CHD diagnosis. We were handed a kit at a prenatal appointment with loads of information to advocate for our son and ask questions of our care team, ways to connect with other families in the area, and comfort items.
Volunteering with this organization, alongside patients, parents, spouses, caregivers, and professionals has been extremely rewarding. The organization is forward thinking and looking to improve the lives of all those effected by CHD, while we all strive to conquer the most common birth defect.
Volunteering for this organization has been indescribable. The community that has been formed has impacted so many individuals living with CHD. Conquering CHD's mission is to create visibility and empower all impacted by CHD through raising awareness, knowledge, community, and research. As a CHD patient myself, I have found so many helpful resources that I wish I had known about earlier.
Conquering CHD is a one-stop shop for patients with congenital heart disease and their families. As a parent of two CHD patients and a Patient Advocate, I am able to access local support from other CHD families, education on the latest advancements in cardiac treatment and research, as well as participate in legislative advocacy.
Conquering CHD has given me the resources to best advocate for my children and their care and has connected me to a national network from which to learn from and grow with. My family will grow with Conquering CHD, as my children transition to adolescent and adult CHD providers, and eventually manage their care solo. Conquering CHD supports the CHD patient over their lifetime and that's something none of us can go without.
Volunteers in Virginia provide much-needed support and comfort during difficult times. They host events to celebrate the good times. They provide education and resources when patients and families need it most. They are truly changing the landscape of congenital heart disease, one patient at a time!