Candid Hearts: Conversations and CHD

Jen and Mark Hinkle lost their son Ollie to CHD complications in 2013. In the midst of unimaginable grief, they created something truly impactful in his honor—The Ollie Hinkle Heart Foundation—which has grown into one of the most comprehensive support systems in the CHD community.Through their work, Ollie’s name and legacy continue to touch lives across the country, offering support, connection, and care to families who need it most.In this episode, Amy and Meagan sit down with Anna Farrell—heart mom and OHHF’s fundraising development manager—to explore the many ways the foundation is making a difference. From national mental health therapy matching and meal delivery programs to CPR events at local bars and preventative heart screenings, this conversation highlights the far-reaching impact of a legacy built on love, loss, and purpose.https://theohhf.org/https://www.instagram.com/theohhf/https://www.facebook.com/theohhf/If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

If you’re looking for someone who truly embodies a glass-half-full mindset, Joe is your person.In today’s episode, Joe shares how his perspective has helped him maintain positivity through life’s challenges. His journey hasn’t been easy—facing open-heart surgery at 17 and again at 29, along with the setback of losing a job—but finding his way to a career he loves.Joe opens up about the power of mindset and the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people, offering a meaningful reminder of how both can shape and strengthen your CHD journey.If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

Today, we’re honored to speak with Ellen Boyer, Co-Founder and President of the The Brett Boyer Foundation. Through this conversation, Ellen shares the beautiful and deeply moving story of her daughter, Brett.Born with both a congenital heart defect and Down syndrome, Brett brought immense joy and light to everyone around her. Even through profound loss, Ellen, her husband, and their community have transformed their grief into something truly meaningful—creating a foundation that supports CHD, Down syndrome, mental health, research, and provides financial assistance to families in need.We also highlight two incredible parts of their mission: the Warriors program, which celebrates Heart Warriors and creates a space to embrace and honor their stories and scars, and Brett’s Barn—founded by Brett’s aunt, Caroline Bryan, and fully funded by Caroline and Luke Bryan. Ellen shares how Brett’s Barn came to life and the impact it continues to have today.Brett’s story is nothing short of extraordinary—offering hope to families navigating grief and strength to those still in the fight. Join us as we celebrate Brett’s life and legacy with her mother, Ellen.https://www.thebrettboyerfoundation.org/https://www.instagram.com/brightforbrett/https://www.facebook.com/brightforbrett/If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

Today, Jake joins us to share his perspective on his heart journey and the path it has led him down. From navigating the transplant evaluation process to reflecting on what it all means for his future, Jake offers an honest and grounded look at life in a complex season.He walks us through his recent appointments, giving insight into what transplant evaluation can look like, while also opening up about his mindset along the way. Jake brings a refreshing balance — reminding us not to take everything too seriously, while still honoring the weight and reality of what he’s facing. If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

In this special episode, Amy and Meagan reflect on an unforgettable milestone—the very first Adult Heart Camp.Seventeen adults living with congenital heart disease traveled from multiple states to gather for a weekend built on something many of us have searched for our entire lives: connection. While heart camps have long existed for children with CHD, this weekend was created specifically for adults—a place where no one had to explain their scars, their medical history, or what it's like to live with a lifelong heart condition.Throughout the weekend, strangers became friends as stories were shared, laughter filled the campgrounds, and a community was formed through a shared understanding that only another CHDers can truly provide.Join us as we look back on the memories, the lessons, and the incredible impact of creating a space where adults with CHD could simply belong. This episode celebrates the power of community and reminds us that heart camp doesn't have to end in childhood—it can become something just as meaningful in adulthood.Until we meet again at Adult Heart Camp 2027,Amy Erhart Cunningham Founder/HostPlease email [email protected] for more information about Heart Camp 2027If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

In today’s Murmur Mill, we talk about the idea of living “normal” lives. While we’re fully aware that we have heart defects, we also know they don’t define who we are. The belief that people with CHD can’t live full, fulfilling lives is just that—a misconception. Many of us are thriving and living abundant lives. That doesn’t mean we don’t need support from time to time, but we’re not nearly as fragile as some people assume. Join us as we walk through this concept.  If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

On today’s episode, we talk with Lizzie about her inspiring journey. Lizzie was born with a congenital heart defect and 22q11 deletion syndrome, which has shaped many aspects of her life beyond just her heart condition.She shares her experience navigating the Canadian healthcare system and how it has supported her throughout her life. Lizzie also tells us how she found her way to the Special Olympics, explains the program, and reflects on the opportunities it has brought her along the way. If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

Let’s talk about cake! Not just any cake, but cakes that bring smiles to some truly incredible people.Icing Smiles is an organization that connects volunteer bakers from across the country to create special cakes for children with chronic illnesses, their siblings, and families honoring a child who has passed.Join us as Chelsea shares her story and gives us a closer look at the heart behind Icing Smiles and the joy it brings to so many families.  https://www.icingsmiles.orghttps://www.instagram.com/icingsmiles/https://www.tiktok.com/tag/icingsmiles If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

Today, Mia joins us to share her incredibly unique story. Born with a congenital heart defect of her own, Mia has lived a healthy and vibrant life. When she and her husband decided to grow their family, she knew there were potential risks after  conversations with her medical team.At her 21-week fetal ultrasound, they learned that her son would also be born with a congenital heart defect.In this episode, Mia vulnerably walks us through her pregnancy journey — the emotions, the unknowns, and the strength it took to move forward with courage. She shares how she advocated for specialized care, made critical decisions for both herself and her baby, and prepared for a birth that would require a carefully coordinated medical team.Join us as we talk about generational CHD, maternal intuition, advocacy, and the powerful resilience of a heart mom who has lived both sides of the story — as a patient and now as a parent.If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

Today, we’re joined by members of Mezzion, a pharmaceutical company focused on improving outcomes for those living with single ventricle heart conditions. In our conversation with John, Margaret Sarah, and Meg, we learn more about their mission to bring hope to the CHD community through their FUEL-2 study.FUEL-2 is exploring a potential new medication called udenafil, designed to help children and teens who have undergone the Fontan procedure. The study is looking at whether this treatment can improve energy levels, exercise capacity, and daily functioning, while also evaluating its safety.Join us as they share more about Mezzion’s work, the population they serve, and how studies like FUEL-2 could make a meaningful difference for the single ventricle community.https://mezzion.com/https://www.fuel2study.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/mezzionIf you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

** Trigger Warning** Today’s conversation includes honest discussion about heart transplant and the realities that come with it. If that feels tender for you right now, please pause and come back when you’re ready.Today, we sit down with Kristin to share her powerful journey to a heart transplant. In this episode, she opens up about the early steps of the process, the overwhelming flood of information that comes with it, and the emotional weight of navigating such a life-changing path.With honesty and resilience, Kristin walks us through what it truly means to prepare for transplant — the uncertainty, the waiting, and the strength it takes to keep moving forward. Through it all, her positivity shines as she reflects on the lessons learned and hope found along the way.Join us for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation you won’t want to miss.If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

Today, we speak with Project 1 in 100, an organization dedicated to uniting the entire CHD community in all its forms to advocate for awareness and meaningful change. While each founding member brings their own unique story and passion to the mission, they share one common goal — to be a voice for everyone impacted by CHD, no matter the diagnosis.Beyond raising awareness, inclusivity is at the heart of everything they do. Join us as we hear their vision, their purpose, and how they plan to make a lasting difference in the CHD community.If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

In today’s episode, Pam shares her deeply personal journey of longing to become a mother—and how that dream came true through the adoption of her son, Joshua, from Guatemala. As a first-time mom, Pam leans into her intuition when an unexpected situation arises, trusting that something isn’t quite right. That instinct leads to the discovery that Joshua has congenital heart disease, setting them on a life-changing journey they now walk together.  Reminding each other that "Just because you lose your queen is gone, doesn't mean the game is over."You can follow more of Pam and Joshua’s story beyond the podcast through her website and by reading her book, The Boy with the Backward Heart.https://pamelasampson.com/https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Backward-Heart-Adoption-Medical-ebook/dp/B0FVQBK5JNIf you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

Today, we’re joined by Meagan’s husband, Billy; Amy’s husband, Bryan; and Steven and Janice. We wanted to create space for an honest conversation with spouses to explore what it’s like to love and build a life with someone who has congenital heart disease as an adult.From choosing a partner with CHD to navigating emotions, concerns, and hopes for the future, our guests share their perspectives openly and thoughtfully. In this episode, we dive into the realities, the worries, and the deep connections that come with these relationships—and how you might relate to the experiences shared.If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

In today’s episode, we debunk a common myth about congenital heart disease. While many people are aware of CHD, it’s important to be clear: not all CHDs are the same.Too often, we find ourselves comparing our journeys to those of others, without taking the time to recognize that every person living with CHD has their own story, their own diagnosis, and their own unique challenges. In this candid conversation, we open up about how we, too, have contributed to the persistence of this myth through comparison.With over 40 different types of CHD in existence, each journey looks different and impacts lives at different stages. What unites us is not identical experiences, but a shared need for understanding, education, and awareness within the CHD community.Find our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Story- Meagan HouptMy HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart Cunningham

Welcome to Candid Hearts: Conversations in CHD. We’re Meagan and Amy, and we’re so glad you’re here.This podcast is a space for real, honest conversations about congenital heart disease. We’ll be sharing stories not only from our own journeys, but also from other CHD patients and families who know this life firsthand. Together, we’ll talk about all aspects of CHD—the good, the hard, and everything in between.We’ll also bring you a special segment called The Murmur Mill, where we debunk common myths and rumors surrounding CHD and shed light on what’s fact versus fiction.Our hope is to create meaningful content that helps all of us learn, grow, and feel less alone as we navigate life with CHD—together.Thank you for joining us. ❤️If you or someone you know would like to be part of the podcast you can message both Meagan and Amy at:  candidhearts25@gmail,comFind our journey’s on Facebook:My HLHS Diary- Amy Erhart CunninghamMy HLHS Story- Meagan Houpt

After two years of recording solo, I’ve made the decision for Diaries of a Heart Warrior to change and evolve. This choice tugged at my heartstrings in a very personal way, but deep down I knew that bringing in a co-host would allow us to create the kind of meaningful, impactful content we need.A HUGE thank you to every listener and guest who shared this journey with me over two wonderful years of Diaries of a Heart Warrior. Your stories, support, and trust have meant more than I can put into words.Here’s to many more conversations as we transition into Candid Hearts: Conversations in CHD, now with my co-host, Meagan Houpt!Thank you all for growing with us.Much love, Amy

Join me for this episode as I sit down with Dr. Ilardi, a neuropsychologist, whose journey into supporting the CHD community began unexpectedly. While she did not originally set out to work with CHD patients, a clinical rotation opened her eyes to a significant gap in care—particularly around neurodevelopmental challenges faced by these children and their families.After years within the healthcare system, Dr. Ilardi recognized that her impact was needed in a different way. Today, her mission is clear: to empower families, support children’s development, and help them truly thrive.Be sure to visit Dr. Ilardi’s website to explore the incredible work she is doing and the meaningful change she continues to bring to the community.https://pedneurocenter.com/

Today I’m joined by Amanda as she shares her CHD journey. While childhood brought relatively few issues, things changed in her teenage years, leading to surgery and ongoing complications into adulthood. Through it all, Amanda’s positivity and outlook on life shine. In this episode, she opens up about her challenges, her resilience, and her hopes for the future—reminding us that CHD doesn’t have to hold us back.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Today I’m joined by Jul, Aaron, and Scott for a conversation about transitioning from pediatric to adult care. When you’re born with CHD, so much happens before you’re even old enough to understand it. In this episode, we share the things we wish we had known during that transition—offering insight, lessons, and hope to help others navigate their own path into adult care.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Today I’m joined by Patrick Mason for a special episode. Since we both host podcasts, we thought it would be fun to do a dual interview and share our stories together. Patrick opens up about his own journey—what led him into podcasting, his experience as a dad to a child with HLHS, and the hopes he carries for the future.https://micahmasonfoundation.org/https://micahmasonfoundation.org/sharingthehope/sharing-the-hope/If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Growing up with CHD, there was no manual on what we could or couldn’t do—it was often trial by fire. Our parents did the best they could with the information they had, but as we step into adulthood, it’s on us to figure out how to start—or keep up—an active lifestyle. For some, that comes naturally; for others, it’s a lifelong struggle. What we all share, though, is an understanding of how important movement is for our health and well-being. Join us today as we talk openly about our health journeys and the role physical activity plays in our lives.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Today I’m joined by Aiden, who shares his powerful CHD and transplant journey. His path toward transplant began when he was just 16, and at 18, he received his new heart. Now, nine years later, Aiden reflects on the reality that while his heart is strong, his body is facing new challenges. Join us as he opens up about his experiences, what he’s learning along the way, and how he continues moving forward.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Aaron is back! Today, he opens up about his disability journey—what led him to the decision to step away from his job and begin the Social Security process. He shares the barriers he faced along the way and highlights the key things he believes others should consider when navigating this path. After a long road, he finally receives that official stamp of approval.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Today, Bekah opens up about her journey of finding her footing as an adult with CHD. Learning to advocate for ourselves isn’t always easy—it takes time, growth, and confidence. For Bekah, certain life experiences have sparked a stronger drive to speak up for her needs. Now, she’s drawing from those moments and the lessons they’ve taught her to make positive changes in both her health and the way she communicates with her care team.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

To say Melanie’s story is unique would be an understatement. While having one child with CHD is already rare—about 1 in 100 births—Melanie is navigating life with two children living with congenital heart disease. The challenges are real, but she’s meeting them head-on with strength and grace.For Melanie, the key has been finding balance—giving her oldest the space to live his life with guidance, while encouraging both of her children to make their own choices and discover who they are within the context of CHD. Her priority has always been to raise confident, self-aware kids who feel empowered to take ownership of their journeys.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Today, Thirza shares her powerful story of living with CHD. Despite the challenges she’s faced, it’s clear she’s thriving. I especially love how she reflects on the impact of being part of a CHD group in her younger years—how those connections turned into lasting relationships. Inspired by that experience, she’s now continuing the mission for adults. Tune in to hear her incredible journey.Below is her Website and Facebook page for her adult group.  Go check it out!https://aangeborenhartafwijking.nl/hartcor/https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BTqvUTUA1/If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Katherine was born in 1982, and from the very beginning, her parents were filled with hope for her future. She underwent her first surgery within months of birth and received the Fontan procedure at age nine. From that point through much of her adult life, her health remained stable. However, in her 30s, she began experiencing arrhythmias—an unexpected turn that significantly altered the course of her life. Join me as Katherine opens up about her journey, sharing the emotional impact and grieving process that has come with navigating these changes in her adult years.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Today, Tessa shares her journey through pregnancy, life as a military spouse, and the transition of care in managing her CHD. She reflects on her experiences with four pregnancies, navigating the challenges of frequent relocations as part of a military family. Additionally, she opens up about her transition from pediatric to adult cardiology, emphasizing the importance of understanding your CHD early to prepare for independent adulthood.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Ellie was born with CHD, facing numerous challenges along the way. However, the most significant complication she endured was a stroke. Looking back, she recalls the frustrating journey of seeking help for her worsening symptoms—only to be told it was all in her head and that everything was fine. Doubting herself, she trusted the doctors' reassurances and pushed through, ignoring the warning signs. Unfortunately, this dismissal ultimately led to a stroke, forever changing her life and outlook on advocating for herself and other.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Heartworks is a nonprofit organization founded in June202 to build on the groundbreaking work started by Tod and Karen Wanek Family Program for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) at Mayo Clinic in 2010.Today, Kelly and I had a great conversation about a clinical trial through Heartworks that involves a skin punch biopsy to create cardiac stem cells using reprogrammed cell technology. We shared our personal experiences and discussed how we feel about the innovative work Heartworks is doing for the CHD community.Check out all the links!https://heartworksinc.org/https://heartworksinc.org/clinical-trialsFind Kelly @ https://www.facebook.com/kelly.meyers.18If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

At 55, Chantelle has seen her fair share of changes in the medical field.  Being born in the 70's she's been extremely fortunate to have little intervention in her life along that way.  However, she now faces the next phase of CHD and the possibility of transplant.  She states it wonderfully; even though we are born with CHD, doesn't mean we need to place our life on hold, it's a reason for us to live. If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

***Mental Illness***Amber's CHD journey doesn't come without fight.  At a young age not only did she struggled with CHD, but mental illness reared its ugly head in her life.  She just so happened to get an email and she took charge of her mental health, because she knew it was time.  Please join me as she shares her what has helped her push trough the feels of being a burden and how she feels about life today. If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Annie's CHD journey starts in Lima, Peru.  Being born with CHD and not having all the necessary resources it was essential she make it to the states to have life saving surgery.  After being adopted by a wonderful family, she was able to have the interventions needed to thrive today.  Annie has had some health challenges along the way, but at 46 she is living a healthy life and continues to take care of herself so she is able to do that in years to come.  If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Laura's story starts like most of ours.  Born with CHD and living most of her life in the CHD world.  As an adult, her health deteriorated and she was faced with transplant.  Her journey is truly unique.  She has so many serendipitous moments throughout her transplant, that she is exactly where she needs to be and continues to thrive 8 months post transplant.If you are finding yourself in the process of transplant and need someone to reach out to, Laura is more than happy to talk with others about her experience and be a mentor for the community.  She can be reached at:  [email protected] you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Jason's life is full of passion and drive.  Growing up with CHD and finding out it was his time to have a transplant, came a a complete surprise, but he evaluated his life and came to terms that this was the best option for him.  Join me as he takes us through his CHD/Transplant journey. https://www.facebook.com/jasonstransplantjourneyIf you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Neal's story hit me different. We frequently concentrate on the present moment, often overlooking how our youthful experiences and choices can significantly influence our future well-being.  He hit on a hard truth:  the health-related decisions we make in our younger years can greatly impact our health outcomes later in life. Neal experienced this firsthand when he received an unexpected diagnosis. Since then, he has triumphed over that challenge and is now prioritizing his health while looking ahead with optimism.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Today's episode I talk with Daniel.  This is so different than most episodes in the fact that he focus' on his adventures in life.  His HLHS hasn't slowed him down and while he admits he is living an ideal life, he knows things are coming in the future, but he focuses on the now!  If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Kelly joins me to today and speak about her CHD journey.  What I love about talking with Kelly is that she has such an appreciation for life and moves through her story with love and understanding.   She recounts how she and her husband get an unexpected diagnosis within their family, that takes 1 in 100 to a new meaning along with many other stories within her 36 years of life!  If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamFacebook Page: Diaries of a Heart WarriorInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Today I have the pleasure of speaking with Jojo.  She take us through her journey of wanting cosmetic surgery, but instead got way more than she bargained for.  After moving to a new state her plan to live normally were turned upside down when she saw a new cardiologist.  She now is living her life in heart failure and the way she take it is stride goes to show even though our circumstances aren't amazing, we can still have a positive outlook.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Today Aaron shares his story of living the life.  He decided to take his passion of playing music and make it his career in his younger years.  However, that doesn't mean CHD didn't creep up on him and have other plans.  Aaron takes us through his journey of navigating his life as a musician while still dealing with CHD.  After years of living the dream is slowed things down and talks a little able being able to partially retire and how he feels about that today.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Today, Chastity tells us about her heart transplant journey.  Never meeting Chastity and not knowing her story I'm so honored she shared it with us!  She takes us through the initial moments of feeling that deep down something wasn't right, to continuing to push herself to live her life as her heart is failing her all the way through her transplant.  How rapidly her health started to deteriorate and what it looked like in the months leading up to her transplant.  She also brings so much hope to the future of CHD knowing heart transplants are potentially part of our future!  You can follow Chastity on her facebook page:  Heart Strong for Chastityhttps://www.facebook.com/share/19d4Aznmnp/?mibextid=wwXIfrhttps://donatelife.net/If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

I sit down with Elise today as she shares her heart journey starting with her mom finding out in utero.  In her 20's her family makes the decision to move to New Mexico and due to altitude it doesn't go as planned and has to move back to her home state of Arizona.  Elise also shares her struggles with her both heart and mental health and how it is important to address your trauma.If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Today Remy walks us through her heart journey, recounting her early years and the stuggles after her fontan surgery.   As she struggled with issues from her fontan, her provider turns her to social media platforms to engage with the community.  Which is how she came upon being on the Podcast. If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

I want to thank everyone who volunteered to be on the podcast in 2024, those who are spending time with me in 2025 and those who are taking the time to listen!!A huge thank you to you all!Much Love Amy!  

Today, Andrew tells his story of being born with HLHS.  His parents did not know about his heart defect prior to being born and his diagnosis came days after being home.  Given his experience in middle school Andrew had to find a balance between being defined by his heart defect and being proud of it.  I think Andrew does a fantastic job telling his story and how he has found the balance over come the shame he used to feel and how the CHD community has helped him.  If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Today I am talking with 3 fellow CHDers who went to St. Louis in October 2024.  The conference is hosted by Fontan Outcome Network and NPC-QIC; CHD physicians, patients and their families come to learn about heart and liver health and how to extend the life of single ventricle patients.   For patients it is a time to grow friendships and talk about our past present and future and to hear others heart stories!  Ollie's Branch- Mental Health https://theohhf.org/ollies-branch/Sister's by Heart- Where you can apply for assistance to attend a conference.https://www.sistersbyheart.org/If you would like to be on the show please reach out! Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

This is such an amazing story!  Anna's journey started when she became a heart mom.  She through devoting her time to learning about her child's heart condition of hypolastic left heart syndrome, her purpose became so much more!  Sit back and listen to hear journey as she take you from her first step of research and questioning her child's care all they way to where she is today with 400+ episodes on her own podcast Heart to Heart with Anna.Click the link below to see all the wonderful things she is doing!https://linktr.ee/annajaworskiIf you or anyone you know would like to be on Diaries of a Heart Warrior please message me!Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

Meagan shares the process her and her husband went through to gain a precious gift.  When it comes to children, we so often we don't realize how hard it is for CHD patients.  Going through testing to make sure our hearts are strong enough, to making a final decision of how we want to bring a child into our lives.  So many emotions are placed on overdrive in what should be one of the most joyous times of our lives and those emotions just don't fade away.  We are always carrying those with us in so many ways that seem not to make sense.  I love this story!  I hope you do too! Follow Meagan on any one of her platforms and see her full adoption story!Click the link below!!https://linktr.ee/MeaganHoupt?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=c8c6cbed-d232-402d-8aaf-74d74646e5a5

Imagine moving to another part of the state for our child.  That is what Tiffany did, with the help of her husband, family and friends.   Tiffany, so beautifully tells the story of her son Boston, having a missed diagnosis on an ultrasound and working through the struggles when her child was born.  I think this is as much a story of how much a mother/caregiver will sacrifice for their child and the inner strength it takes as well as having a solid foundation behind you as well as Boston's journey.  Due to the lack a resources Tiffany started a 501-c3 to help give the CHD community those same resources she didn't have.  Please check out Boston's Brigade & Layla Strong to support their endeavor.https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087503880807If you or anyone you know would like to be on Diaries of a Heart Warrior, please reach out to:  Facebook:  Amy Erhart CunninghamInstagram:  amyerhart_hlhs