Children's Cardiology Insights

Ten Ways to Raise Awareness for CHD

Group of people holding hands around a heart, symbolizing heart health and community support of congenital heart disease.
CHD awareness photo with cardiologist stethescope

Congenital Heart Defect (CHD) Awareness – 1 in 110 kids are born with a congenital heart defect yet there is limited awareness of this fact. Children’s Cardiology wants to share 10 ways that we can all help raise awareness for Congenital Heart Defects (CHD):

  1. Know the Facts: Understand the facts of congenital heart defects and share them with others. Visit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, CDC, Children’s Heart Foundation and the American Heart Association websites for information.
  2. Community Involvement: Participate in the Congenital Heart Walk in your area or other events that promote and raise money for CHD research and family support. 
  3. Host a “Wear Red Day”: Organize a day where schools, workplaces, and community groups wear red to show support for CHD families. Encourage photos and social sharing to broaden the impact.
  4. Support CHD Families Directly: Offer meaningful support to a local CHD family through simple acts of kindness. This could include preparing a home‑cooked meal, helping with school pickups or drop‑offs, assisting with household chores, or providing a listening ear during stressful medical moments. Small gestures can make a big difference for families navigating CHD
  5. Social Media & Email: Use your family and friend networks to raise awareness and share information about CHD. Change your profile picture for the month of February, share CHD posts to your personal Facebook, Instagram page or other social media sites. 
  6. Sporting or Association Events: Ask a local sports team or association to dedicate a game for a “Red Out” event where the entire team, coaches and fans wear as much red as possible in honor of CHD heroes and in memory of CHD angels. 
  7. Donate: Join a local support group or national organization and donate your time, money or ideas. (Examples: Pediatric Congenital Heart Association, Children’s Miracle Network, American Heart Association, Mended Little Hearts, Children’s Heart Foundation). 
  8. Speaking Engagements: Offer to speak at local parent groups, local events, and parenting conferences, find ways to share your story. 
  9. Print & Post: Find local businesses that have bulletin boards where you can post CHD awareness posters and information. (Examples: coffee shops, Panera Bread Company, local churches). 
  10. Radio, TV and Newspaper: Contact your local radio, television station or newspaper to find out if they are interested in sharing your child’s (or your own) story. #1in110 #CHDAwareness

Related:

My Child Has CHD: What Happens Now
Our Pediatric Cardiologists
CHD Awareness Week

Back To Top