Navigating life with congenital heart defects (CHD) is a journey of resilience and emotional fortitude. As I converse with my fellow heart mom, Rita Scoggins, we unearth the layers of complexity that come with raising adult children affected by CHD. This episode goes beyond the clinical; it’s an intimate foray into the emotional and logistical preparations for life's greatest certainties, including power-of-attorney arrangements and will preparations, while also considering the implications for our adult children and beloved pets upon our passing.

Segment 2 showcases co-editors Megan Tones and Anna Jaworski reading Chapter 2 of The Heart of a Heart Warrior Volume One: Survival

The heart of the chapter beats to the rhythm of personal stories that exemplify the myriad ways individuals with CHD find identity and purpose. From Hope’s inspiring transition and embrace of her true self as a transgender woman, to Jason Crutchley's dedication to volunteerism, and Christie Sillman's leap into a nursing career, these narratives are a testament to the strength found in the CHD community. These journeys illuminate how our warriors, often dubbed so for their battles against physical conditions, also strive for agency and the power of choice in defining their lives.

Segment 3 showcases the first two essays from Chapter 3 of The Heart of a Heart Warrior Volume One: Survival

Physical activity, often seen as a mountain too high for those with CHD, emerges as a pinnacle of personal triumph in these essays. Lorrie Hill's career pivot, and Michael Hills' adaptation to sports outside his initial dreams, are stories that underscore the tenacity of the human spirit. These anecdotes are not just about overcoming limitations, but about redefining personal goals and embracing one's passions, all while living with the realities of a congenital heart condition. Join us for this heartfelt exploration of life's challenges and victories.

Won’t you join us while we discuss these essays in our next Book Study? Co-editors Megan Tones and Anna Jaworski are joined by contributors to the book and others who want to discuss the topics raised in the book. These 1-hour sessions take place on Zoom. Visit Baby Hearts Press for more information.

Did you miss hearing Chapter One or the Front Matter of the book? Here are the links:

Front matter (Foreword, Preface, and Introduction): http://tinyurl.com/H2HwAnnaE434

Chapter 1: http://tinyurl.com/H2HandChapter1

February 2024 Baby Hearts Press announcement

Anna's Buzzsprout Affiliate LinkBaby Blue Sound CollectiveSocial Media Pages:Apple PodcastsFacebookInstagramMeWeTwitterYouTubeWebsite

Navigating the torrent of emotions that come with being a heart mom to an adult child, Rita Scoggins and I, Anna Jaworski, unfold the layers of our unique journey. Our intimate conversation traverses the evolution of care, from the hands-on nurturing of our children's younger years to the complexities of supporting their maturity and independence. We delve into the potent mix of pride and concern, sharing stories that resonate with anyone who understands the pull of a parent's heartstrings as their children, like Rita's daughter Victoria, and Anna’s daughter Hope, carve out lives shaped by both their challenges and triumphs.

This episode continues with reading from The Heart of a Heart Warrior Volume One: Survival. In this episode, co-editors Megan Tones and Anna Jaworski, take turns reading essays from the book. In Chapter One we read the narratives of heart warriors who've faced body insecurities and the trials of scoliosis with courage. Laura Ryan's story, in particular, shines as a beacon of hope; her transformative experience at the waterslides in Lancaster, learning to embrace her surgery scars, offers a deep dive into the power of empathy and connection. We hear how individuals like Michael McKelvey and Dajah Scrivner channel their pain and resilience into poignant expressions of life with CHD.

Our episode doesn't simply share stories; it offers a lattice of support, exploring how adaptive clothing and familial love can buoy spirits amidst adversity. As we discuss the importance of finding strength in community and the solace of shared experiences, we invite you to join us in a space that celebrates overcoming obstacles and the beauty of human connection. For all who walk the path with heart-defect warriors, this conversation is a testament to the enduring spirit and the ties that bind us all.

Rita’s other podcast episodes:

Rita, Victoria, and Heidi Scoggins on The CHC Podcast: ‘Taking Control of Your Heart Condition’ 

Rita as a Guest Host on Heart to Heart with Anna interviewing Laura Ryan. ‘Heart Warrior Mom Raising Children to Adulthood’

Rita and Victoria Scoggins on Heart to Heart with Anna: ‘Congenital Heart Defect Awareness 2015’

Learn more about our The Heart of a Heart Warrior Volume One: Survival Book Study and join us to discuss the book and share your stories. 

Anna's Buzzsprout Affiliate LinkBaby Blue Sound CollectiveSocial Media Pages:Apple PodcastsFacebookInstagramMeWeTwitterYouTubeWebsite

This episode of Heart to Heart with Anna involves news regarding Heart Month 2024. In this episode, you’ll learn about who our guest next week will be, how Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Day came to be and what it has evolved to. You’ll also learn about how Baby Hearts Press, a publishing company devoted to the CHD community, has a special sale for Heart Month and how we’ll be conducting a Book Study of Volume One of The Heart of a Heart Warrior. 

You’ll also learn about the new writers’ platform we’re working with to create some new books. Scribophile is a place for writers to come together to support one another. Join us in the Heart to Heart group for information for the CHD community.

Lastly, I’ll be sharing some behind-the-scenes information about The Heart of a Heart Warrior, our Kickstarter campaign, and why I’ve decided to record the audiobook this month—and give it away freely on Heart to Heart with Anna. 

This episode features the front matter of the Kickstarter edition of the book. The Kickstarter edition of The Heart of a Heart Warrior contains the first three volumes in one hardcover edition of the book. In this podcast episode, you’ll hear me reading the poem that starts our book—‘I am a Miracle Child’ by Becca Atherton, the Dedication, Foreword, Preface, Acknowledgements, Introduction, and the opening to Volume One: Survival.

Helpful Links:

Baby Hearts Press Submission Page: https://www.babyheartspress.com/submissions

Baby Hearts Press Bookstore: https://babyheartspress.myshopify.com/

Scribophile Heart to Heart Group: https://www.scribophile.com/groups/heart-to-heart-writing-group/

Victoria and Rita’s episode about CHD Awareness: http://tinyurl.com/VictoriaScoggins

Anna's Buzzsprout Affiliate LinkBaby Blue Sound CollectiveSocial Media Pages:Apple PodcastsFacebookInstagramMeWeTwitterYouTubeWebsite

Embark with us as we illuminate the enduring pulse of Hearts Unite the Globe, the non-profit championing an array of deeply impactful podcasts. From the heartfelt dialogues of Heart to Heart with Anna to the comforting echoes of Bereaved but Still Me, we're uniting voices across the congenital heart disease (CHD) community. Our mission extends beyond conversation; it's a call to empower, educate, and enrich the lives entwined with CHD and bereavement. We're unveiling exciting tweaks to our website, orchestrated by the talented Lauren England, that streamline your access to our treasure trove of resources and introduce a town hall-style podcast format that embraces the shared experiences of our listeners.The journey continues as we traverse the landscape of loss and healing, led by the poignant narratives from Michael Liben's Bereaved But Still Me to the hope-infused Everyday Miracles. As executive producer, I wear my pride on my sleeve for the platform we've created that fosters profound conversations on life's toughest trials. Dive into the compassionate offerings on the HUG website, where support groups, therapy options, and unique programs like bravery beads await to guide individuals at every step of their heart journey. Discover the myriad of voices represented in our podcasts, including the wisdom of those who've walked the path of grief, and let them be your beacon of light in the darker moments.As the episode draws to a close, we raise the banner for the unwavering support these families need, recognizing the vital role of organizations like the Adult Congenital Heart Association and the Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Outcome Collaborative. The heart's resilience is mirrored in the community itself, where heart-related camps offer solace and solidarity. Your support is the lifeline for our mission, and we invite you to contribute in any way you can—financially, as a volunteer, or simply by sharing our cause. Together, let's forge ahead towards the momentous goal of hiring an executive director, and continue to extend our hand to more families navigating through the world of CHD.Visit the HUG website here: https://www.heartsunitetheglobe.comAnother way you can help financially is to subscribe via Buzzsprout here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/supporters/new

Anna's Buzzsprout Affiliate LinkBaby Blue Sound CollectiveSocial Media Pages:Apple PodcastsFacebookInstagramMeWeTwitterYouTubeWebsite

Ever wonder about the emotional odyssey of creating a book that captures the essence of human resilience? My co-editor Megan Tones and I, Anna Jaworski, take you on the intimate trek behind "The Heart of a Heart Warrior," from the flicker of an idea to the jubilance of publication. Our conversation unwraps the passion and dedication needed to weave together stories that resonate with the spirit of heart warriors and their families, reflecting on the Kickstarter campaign that turned our hardcover dream into reality. We invite listeners to be part of our ever-growing narrative quilt, emphasizing that the heartbeat of our work is the voices we empower. Turning the page, we navigate the nitty-gritty of book formatting, a task as challenging as it is crucial. Converting our labor of love into an e-book format presented us with a labyrinth of technical hiccups, where attention to detail became our guiding light. We discuss the importance of meticulous proofreading and editing, ensuring the stories we hold dear don't lose their essence in translation. The warmth and excitement of the community's embrace of our work remind us that these stories are not just ours—they belong to all who find solace and strength in them.Our episode rounds off with a look at the power of collaborative writing platforms, particularly Scribophile, where we foster the growth of aspiring authors. By moving beyond the confines of Facebook groups, we provide a structured sanctuary for creativity and constructive critique. Sharing the touching narratives of CHD siblings, we shed light on the oft-overlooked heroes whose stories of strength and solidarity are as influential as those of the heart warriors themselves. As we announce future collaborations with co-editors Desiree Vaught and Sheri Turner, we extend an invitation: whether your medium is words or art, your story has a home with us.To learn more about Baby Hearts Press submissions, use this link: https://www.babyheartspress.com/submissionsScribophile group link: https://www.scribophile.com/groups/heart-to-heart-writing-group/

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Have you ever felt the tug of curiosity towards an approach to mental health that strays from the conventional path? Today, I'm thrilled to welcome Valerie Chavez MD and Ryan Hunter to share their insights on functional medicine's transformative role in mental health care, especially for those touched by congenital heart defects. Together, we unpack the personalized care that functional medicine offers, emphasizing the power of lifestyle changes and stress reduction to unleash the body's remarkable healing abilities. Our conversation reveals how addressing the unique underlying causes of health issues leads to profound improvements in emotional and physical well-being.A brush with the serene world of aromatherapy during our discussion spotlights the soothing properties of essential oils, proving invaluable within the high-tension walls of an ICU. We recall how the scent of chamomile provided a tranquil harbor for anxious parents navigating the stormy seas of a child's hospital stay. Through anecdotes and expert advice, we navigate the practicalities of integrating these calming fragrances into stressful environments, while also honoring the deeply rooted emotional connections our sense of smell can evoke. It's a sensory journey that underscores the link between our olfactory experiences and our mental landscape.As our heartfelt dialogue draws to a close, we explore the interplay between spirituality and mental health. Discover how HeartMath's biofeedback tools bring peace and coherence to both adults and children and delve into the ancient wisdom of the Four Agreements, discussing its potential to shape our mental health practices. We also confront the theme of forgiveness, its role in our lives, and the catharsis of releasing resentment. As I bid you farewell until our next conversation, I invite you to continue exploring these topics on the CHC Podcast – Congenital Heart Conversations, where we unite, inspire, and empower the Congenital Heart Disease community through stories and support.Websites You May Find Helpful:

Valerie Chavez’ website: https://gutmend.com/

Ryan Hunter’s website: https://functionalcoachingtx.com/

HeartMath website: https://www.heartmath.com/

Book Mentioned in the Episode which may interest you:

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel RuizIt Didn’t Start with You: How Inherited Family Trauma Shapes Who We Are and How to End the Cycle by Mark WolynnThe Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel A. van der KolkWhen the Body Says No: Understanding the Stress Disease Connection by Gabor Maté, M.D. Link to the first functional medicine episode: Exploring Functional Medicine: Harnessing the Power of Essential Oils and Holistic Health Approaches: https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/13711353

Anna's Buzzsprout Affiliate LinkBaby Blue Sound CollectiveSocial Media Pages:Apple PodcastsFacebookInstagramMeWeTwitterYouTubeWebsite

As I sit back and reflect on Heart to Heart with Anna in the year 2023, I want you to celebrate with me, Anna Jaworski, as we mark a milestone of connection and growth within the congenital heart defect community. From the early days on Voice America to our move to Blog Talk Radio and beyond, we've weathered sponsorship storms and emerged stronger, bringing hope and vital information to those touched by CHD. Join me for an intimate retrospective on our top episodes of the past year, recognizing stories that have resonated and sparked conversations, powered by the voices that have made this journey unforgettable.Stepping into the future, I'm excited to open the doors to compassionate individuals eager to make a difference. Your unique skills can shine in various volunteer roles, from scripting heartfelt narratives to amplifying our reach on social media. Our collective efforts support Hearts Unite the Globe, ensuring that no one walks their CHD path alone. I have a particular fondness for LinkedIn as a hub of engagement—let it be the place where you step forward to join our passionate mission. Together, we will continue to be a beacon of light, wrapping the CHD community in a blanket of support and ensuring that every heart feels heard and valued.Top 5 2023 Heart to Heart with Anna Episodes:Link to #5 Navigating the Journey of Parenting Children with Autism and Congenital Heart Defects: A Heartfelt Conversation and Advocacy with two fantastic heart moms — Melanie Letzer and Kelly Blumenthal. https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/12993576

An Unseen Threat: The Cody Watkins Story of Heart Failure and Recovery https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/13210321

Link to #4 Myocardial Bridging and Boots Knighton https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/12585318

Link to #3 Heart Mom and Heart Daughter on Being a Mom https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/12765679

Link to #2 Cardiac Chronicles and Community Connections: Leigh Kamping-Carder’s Story https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/12988991

Link to #1 LGBTQ+ and the CHD Community https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/11968012

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Imagine living in a family where sudden deaths were a tragic norm. That's the reality heart mom Jackie Renford faced before the fateful identification of Long Q-T Syndrome, a genetic heart condition, in her family. Her misdiagnosis and the subsequent loss of her son and daughter have inspired her to become an advocate for early detection and treatment of this life-threatening condition. Journey with us as she shares her family's heart-wrenching story and opens up about the ongoing battle with Long Q-T Syndrome.Jackie's experiences with Long QT Syndrome open up a world that is often misunderstood. How do you navigate through life when you and multiple family members are affected by a genetic heart condition? Jackie gives us a first-hand account of the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of Long Q-T Syndrome, as well as the emotional toll it takes. She emphasizes the importance of regular medical check-ups, cautious medication use, and a proper diagnosis. Find out how her family is rallying around this, the importance of comprehensive medical care, and how they're facing the realities and challenges of living with Long QT Syndrome.We may not choose the trials we face, but we can choose to find blessings amidst adversity. In the spirit of finding light in the darkness, I share my own experiences of living with a congenital heart defect and the support that has been instrumental in my journey. As we approach the holiday season, I encourage you to join us in providing free programming for the congenital heart defect and bereaved communities. It's through our stories that we realize we are not alone, and it's in our blessings that we find hope. Join us for a profound understanding of Long QT Syndrome and a message of resilience and hope.

Anna's Buzzsprout Affiliate LinkBaby Blue Sound CollectiveSocial Media Pages:Apple PodcastsFacebookInstagramMeWeTwitterYouTubeWebsite

Anna's Buzzsprout Affiliate LinkBaby Blue Sound CollectiveSocial Media Pages:Apple PodcastsFacebookInstagramMeWeTwitterYouTubeWebsite

Have you ever considered how your lifestyle choices could be affecting your health? Ever wondered about the benefits of essential oils or how to improve your gut health? Then you're in the right place. In a riveting discourse with renowned Valerie Chavez, MD, and Ryan Hunter, we delve into the heart of Functional Medicine. Together, we unravel the mysteries behind this unique approach that goes beyond surface symptoms to identify the root causes of illness.Harness the power of essential oils and understand the importance of sourcing from reputable sources in our exploration of this therapeutic world. Ryan Hunter unveils the secrets of these potent substances, their historical use, benefits in stress relief, sleep induction, inflammation reduction, and more. Imagine enhancing your mental and emotional well-being with the simple application or inhalation of these oils. Intriguing, isn't it? As we wrap up, we shed light on the often overlooked sensitivities and allergies many have towards certain foods. Valerie unravels the importance of an elimination diet and the power of listening to our bodies. Find out about natural remedies for pain and stress, from Epsom salt baths to Arnica Montana and essential oils. Empower yourself with the knowledge to take charge of your health. Join us on this journey of exploring holistic health approaches. Don't just survive; thrive.You can reach out to Ryan Hunter and Dr. Valerie Chavez here:https://functionalcoachingtx.com/

my.doterra.com/functionalcoachinghttps://www.ifm.org/practitioners/valerie-chavez-m-d/

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