Have you ever wondered how living with a congenital heart defect can shape one's life journey? This week, we’re diving into the remarkable stories of heart warriors, those extraordinary individuals who navigate life with congenital heart defects. I'm Anna Jaworski, and in this episode, we explore the powerful metaphor of transformation, akin to a caterpillar becoming a butterfly, as we discuss my latest book, "Heart of a Heart Warrior Volume Three: Transformation." We start off with an evocative foreword by Paula M. Miller, who shares her moving journey of resilience and the life-changing support she found through the Adult Congenital Heart Association.

Prepare to be moved by the creative spirit of the CHD community. My co-editor, Megan Tones, and I highlight the diverse artistic expressions, from vivid visual artworks to heartfelt poetry and fiction. You’ll hear about the stunning ferret drawing by Julie Kerr and the poignant poems of Lisa Colvil and Becca Atherton. We honor not only the living artists but also those who have passed away, celebrating their enduring legacy through their art. Organizations like Hearts Unite the Globe play a pivotal role in supporting these heart warriors, amplifying their voices and their art.

The episode also touches on the critical role of parental advocacy and support. I share my personal journey navigating life with a child born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), which led me to write books and help form the Milagros support group. Inspired by these experiences, I continue to work on new volumes that capture the resilience and spirit of heart warriors, with Megan by my side as co-editor. Join us as we celebrate these empowering stories, remind everyone that they are not alone, and look forward to connecting with our listeners next week.

To get a copy of The Heart of a Heart Warrior: Volume 3 Transformation, visit the Baby Hearts Press website at: https://www.babyheartspress.com

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