Students Who Have Congenital Heart Disease Fund

During my senior year of high school, I created and launched a scholarship for students with congenital heart defects. I was unable to continue it during my freshman year of college because I did not have the necessary resources. Now, as I enter my sophomore year, I have the opportunity to continue what I started by helping a student with a congenital heart defect succeed in an academic setting. Many students with congenital heart defects face challenges that make it difficult to live life to the fullest. It can be hard for them to play sports, interact with friends, or fully focus on their academics. Being able to contribute even a small amount toward supporting their education means the world to me because I relate to them on many levels. When I was only a few months old, I was diagnosed with a ventricular septal defect, which was later resolved through open-heart surgery. As I grew up, I continued to experience its effects, such as missing school for long doctor visits and having to limit my physical activity. These experiences took a toll on my daily life and perspective. Knowing that there are about two million Americans who have faced similar challenges inspired me to create this scholarship. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps support a student with a congenital heart defect in pursuing their academic dreams.