Episode 2: Why Advocacy Matters

How advocacy influences public policy and the charities and organizations fighting for heart patients   In the second episode of The 1% Heart, I'm joined by Mark Roeder, President and CEO of the Adult Congenital Heart Association. With decades of experience in public relations and strategic planning, Mark is the perfect champion for legislation that supports CHD patients.   Our conversation explores the challenges of raising awareness for Congenital Heart Defects, the importance of lifelong care, and the recent passage of the Congenital Heart Futures Reauthorization Act (CHFRA). Mark shares insights on the role of ACHA in supporting adults with CHD, the significance of transitioning from pediatric to adult care, and how patients and families can get involved in advocacy efforts. The conversation highlights the need for continued support and awareness for this growing population.   Disclaimer & Trigger Warning: Nothing in this episode constitutes medical advice. These are our personal experiences, opinions, and stories. This podcast contains honest discussions of medical trauma, adult language, and adult content.   Listener discretion is advised.