February: Supporting Little Hearts with the Children's Heart Foundation

Februrary is a month filled with love and care, and it's not just because of Valentine's Day. In the U.S., February is also recognized as American Heart Month, and from February 7th to the 14th, our country observes Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week. During this time, we raise awareness for congenital heart defects (CHDs), which impact approximately 1% of newborns each year. CHDs are structural abnormalities in a baby's heart that occur during development. While some defects may be minor, others can be life-threatening, requiring immediate medical intervention.

To honor this important cause, Bam & Stitch is proud to partner with the Children's Heart Foundation as our February charity of the month. We'll be donating a portion of our sales to support their incredible efforts in CHD research, helping improve the lives of millions of children and families affected by congenital heart defects.

The Children's Heart Foundation has been a beacon of hope for families since its founding in 1996. As the nation's leading organization dedicated solely to funding CHD research, the foundation has supported has $18 million dollars in groundbreaking studies. These advancements have significantly improved survival rates and quality of life for children an adults living with CHDs.

In the past 20 years along, the death rate for congenital heart defects has decreased by 37.5%, thanks to innovation in diagnosis, treatment, and care. Today, the foundation continues to support research into the causes, prevention, and lifelong care needs of those affected by CHDs, ensuring that every child has a change to live a healthy, thriving life.

The foundation's mission was born from a story of unimaginable loss and enduring hope. In 1995, Steve and Betsy Peterson experienced every parent's worst fear. Their 8-year-old son, Sam, who was born with complex congenital heart defects, passed away due to multiple organ failure after a sudden heart-related collapse.

Despite their grief, the Petersons were determined to make a difference. They founded the Children's Heart Foundation to fund research that could prevent other families from experiencing such heartbreak. Today, the foundation carries forward their vision, giving children born with CHDs the chance to grow, thrive, and live long, fulfilling lives.

While the exact causes of many CHDs remain unknown, scientists continue to make strides in understanding these conditions. Some heart defects are linked to genetic factors, while others may be influenced by environmental conditions or maternal health. About 15-20% of CHDs are associated with genetic conditions, and a baby's risk increases significantly if a parent or sibling has a CHD.

Advancements in research have not only improved survival rates but have also led to less invasive treatments for children with heart defects. In the 1950s, only 20% of infants with critical CHDs survived to adulthood. Today, that number has climbed to 69%, and with continued support, it will rise even higher.

We're honored to contribute to the Children's Heart Foundation this February and invite you to join us in supporting this vital cause. Every Bam & Stitch purchase this month helps us raise awareness for CHD research and supports families affected by congenital heart defects.

Want to do more? You can donate directly to the Children's Heart Foundation or visit their website to explore other ways to get involved. Together, we can help ensure that every child born with a CHD has the chance to live a happy, healthy life.

Let's spread love and hope this February - because little hearts deserve a big support.