Imagine a world where a zipper scar is recognised for the bearer being a #CHD hero and what that really means. When I tell someone about Elijah's heart condition (Tetralogy of Fallot a severe congential heart defect) I tend to guess their reaction. After four years we tend to be met with the same response. One that is slightly uncomfortable, one that sees them struggling to find the words after we tell them that we watched as our six month old baby was wheeled away into theatre, not knowing if we would see him alive again. Perhaps a glimmer of relief that it isn't their child that will face struggles, future surgeries, restrictions and life long appointments. We tend to be met with sympathy for our situation, which is greatfully recieved. Some have a relative or a friend they know that CHD has also resided in so have an insight into what our lives are like. Some ask questions which I jump at the chance of answering. Asking me questions about Elijah's condition me...
One Mum honestly confessing what it is really like to have a NICU baby with CHD and championing NICU and Maternal Mental Health issues to help raise awareness, support and comfort to others.