Why Heart Awareness?

Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are structural issues in the heart that are present at birth, affecting its walls, valves, or blood vessels. These defects disrupt the normal flow of blood and are among the most common birth defects, impacting around 1 in 100 babies worldwide.

CHDs can range from mild to severe, and the severity often dictates the course of treatment. Some defects may only require monitoring, while others may necessitate medication, surgery, or other medical interventions. Early detection and treatment are crucial, and many children with CHDs grow up to lead healthy lives with proper care and support.

Regular check-ups with pediatric cardiologists are vital, particularly for those with more complex or severe heart conditions.

What is Young at Heart?

Young at Heart (YaH) is a charity that provides support to children with congenital heart defects and their families. Children receiving care at Birmingham Children’s Hospital benefit from the charity’s services, which include emotional support, access to essential resources, and opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach for families.

Founded in 1982 by a group of parents whose children were diagnosed with congenital heart disease, Young at Heart aims to provide a sense of community and understanding for families facing similar challenges. The charity’s trustees all share a common experience—a child with a heart condition—and work to ensure no family feels isolated during their journey.

How is St. Joseph’s Supporting Young at Heart?

To support the invaluable work of Young at Heart (Registered Charity 512815), we will be hosting a cake sale at school on Friday, 28th February. We encourage children to come to school in non-uniform, wearing red or heart-themed clothing, in exchange for a donation.

Your participation will help raise essential funds for the charity, enabling them to continue providing support to families and children affected by congenital heart defects. Thank you for your generosity!

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Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.