Do Halloween festivities bring more joy or concern when you’re living with a congenital heart defect? Ashley DeMarco shares her journey growing up with complex heart conditions, turning personal challenges into stories of resilience. Alongside her, we hear from Michael Liben, who navigates grief with humor on his podcast "Bereaved but Still Me," and Rita, who provides a multi-generational perspective on congenital heart disease (CHD) with her family's experiences. Together, we unravel the nuances of navigating health and community as young adults and parents in the CHD world, painting a picture of hope and solidarity.

As we transition into the spirit of Halloween, nostalgia and safety tips blend together in our lively discussions. We reminisce about trick-or-treating in tight-knit communities, while also highlighting the essential precautions for children with heart conditions during these festivities. The contrast between past and present perceptions of safety reveals a world that’s both cautious and filled with connection through shared medical experiences. Our conversation is a heartwarming reminder of the bonds formed between parents and children, especially when magic and medicine intersect.

Finally, we address the often-overlooked emotional toll of compassion fatigue. With stories from heart camps and non-CHD friendships, we explore the challenges of maintaining relationships while living with ongoing health issues. Rita reflects on a memorable live show, demonstrating how our means of connecting have evolved. The conversation serves as a beacon for understanding and connection, underscoring the profound need for community support. We invite listeners to contribute their insights and stories, enriching the dialogue and reinforcing the shared journey of the CHD community.

Helpful Links:

The Rita, Victoria, and Heidi Scoggins' episode: https://tinyurl.com/3Scoggins

Amy Erhart's first Heart to Heart with Anna episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/episodes/15810923

One of Michael Liben's Heart to Heart with Anna episodes: https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/episodes/736588

Compassion Fatigue Episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/62761/episodes/736588

Become a subscriber: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/heart-to-heart-with-anna--1256958/support