Hopes and Dreams
We little appreciate how many hopes and dreams are tied up in the birth of a child, until something goes wrong.
- Their safe arrival represents and underpins so much – continuation of the generations, parental aspirations, pride and absolute unbridled joy. They link the past to the future and reinforce core belief that our children will outlive us, and through them we will leave our legacy as parents and individuals – our hopes, dreams, aspirations, ethics, beliefs etc.
- We take their good health for granted, during pregnancy, birth and childhood. The possibility of things going not quite as planned is briefly addressed in ante natal classes, but for the majority, those whose families have been untouched by ill health in its many guises, it remains largely unconsidered – there is far too much else to focus on, and after all, medical science has come so far – what could go wrong?
- In fact 1 in every 100 babies is born with congenital heart disease – Although there are huge amounts of information widely available, it is still not broadly discussed or appreciated by the general public. The complexities of achieving effective heart function are significant – in fact, the more we understand, the more we appreciate that everything working as it should, is little short of a miracle...
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Explore Youth at Heart
Youth at Heart are a charity committed to young people aged 13-24, and their families, who are living with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) in South West England and South Wales.
We empower, inform and support them to live their best life.
For young people
We are committed to supporting you as you start your Transition Journey aged 13 and leading up to your Transfer from Paediatrics to Adult Services and beyond, until your 25th birthday.
For the whole family
Youth at Heart recognise that congenital heart disease affects the whole family, which is why our Youth Workers are there for families too.
For professionals
Youth at Heart is a charity independent from the NHS that works in partnership with health professionals across the South Wales & South West Congenital Heart Disease Network.
Get involved
Youth at Heart rely on funds being raised through donations, grants, events and activities and for people to get involved to help us carry on our important work.