-Contributed by Isabella Twyford

We all have emotional baggage that weighs on us. Whether it's feeling different from everyone else, having issues at home or any other challenges, it is something that binds us as a society. We try to prevent our children from coming face to face with the adversities of life but unfortunately some are forced to deal with unimaginable pain. 

Having a congenital heart defect at such a young age can be a deeply traumatic experience, shaping the way a child sees the world. From playing and being carefree to worrying about whether they will ever feel normal again, kids with congenital heart defects (CHDs) face innumerable challenges. Though some cases are simple, some entail multiple operations that feel scary at that age. The biggest worry of a child should be monsters under their bed, not whether they will see a better tomorrow. 

That is why it is vital that we understand as a society the emotional and physical burdens that come with CHD. Electronic health registry analyses show an anxiety/depression prevalence of 18.2% in youth with CHD. Repeated hospitalizations, needles and frequent ICU stays can even lead to PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). 

This can further impact their lives after recovery, making normalcy feel like a faraway land. Watching kids their age run around and play can lower their self-esteem and make them feel like outsiders. Infants with CHD often tire during feeding and burn extra calories, leading to slower weight gain and malnutrition. Growing brains may be impacted by low oxygen levels, leading to delays in walking, talking and other motor skills. 

Physical differences like chest scars, regular absenteeism and activity restrictions can raise the risk of anxiety or social isolation. Additionally, studies show that children with CHD are at higher risk of sleep apnea and restlessness leading to fatigue and impacting their mood. After watching their young ones suffer from a relentless disease, parents overprotect them despite full recovery. 

This can make children feel restrained and lack autonomy. In a nutshell, we can infer that children with CHD should be taken care of emotionally and physically, as no child should have to suffer alone.

Genesis Foundation: CSR Partnership with NGO

Every child with a congenital heart defect deserves the chance to grow up healthy, confident and supported. By coming together as a community, we can help children and their families navigate both the medical and emotional challenges of CHD.

At Genesis Foundation, the team works towards providing life-saving cardiac care to children from underserved communities. Organisations looking to make a meaningful difference can explore a CSR Partnership with an NGO or provide CSR Support for a non-profit organisation working towards better healthcare access for children.

Partner with Genesis Foundation and help give a child the chance at a healthier, brighter future. To know more about the foundation, call at +91 96506 03438 or send an e-mail at contactus@genesis-foundation.net.