Austin child photographer – Congenital Heart Defect

Did you know that approximately 40,000 babies are born each year with a Congenital Heart Defect (CHD)? This equates to 1 child every 15 minutes.

This is a fact that my family and I learned the hard way over 6 years ago. Every September, not only do we celebrate both my nephew’s birthdays, we celebrate Babes heart birthday too. What is his heart birthday? It’s the day he had open heart surgery to repair his broken heart (Transposition of the Great Arteries). Hearts can be broken, but they can be fixed as well. In his case, Babe, as big brother affectionately refers to him, celebrates his heart birthday 5 days after his actual birthday. That is right, open heart surgery at 5 days old. He is our heart warrior. Big brother is Babe’s protector, in all the ways a big brother should be.

Babe is lucky. Not only were we aware of his condition prior to his birth, he was born at the hands of some very caring and skilled doctors, nurses, and staff. They are the reason I know what HeartGift is. They are volunteers for HeartGift, and I am honored to say that I am too.

HeartGift

Not every child is as lucky at Babe. Children are born all over the world that do not have access to the medical means that we have. HeartGift’s vision is that children born with CHD’s have access to the surgical repair they need, regardless of where they live.

My week was made spending lunch at Central Market on Friday with Achilles and his mom who are in town from the Philippines. With his mended heart, we were able to play chase and he mimicked my moves as I was photographing him. It was so cute. Squat, sit, smile, peek-a-boo, run, repeat. Nothing beats the interactions and love of and with his mom.

More sweet faces from earlier this year.

Hanging out and playing with Jan and his mom from Kosovo at Dell Children’s Medical Center.

With a name like Love, the “I Love You So Much” mural at Jo’s Coffee on South Congress was the perfect spot to smile and play with Love and his mom from the Philippines.

Just seeing Mohamed’s smile was enough to make anyone smile as we played at Dell Children’s. (Kenya)

Sophia’s mom saw Love’s portraits on South Congress and requested the same. How can you deny this precious face? (Philippines)

Yulia from China is one special little girl. She has the whole “hook em” down. Perfect for her time in Austin. All of these special children touch my heart, but her story is extra special. These smiles are a few of the reasons being an Austin Child Photographer – Congenital Heart Defect touches my heart.

Contact me if you want to chat or book a session.

Austin child photographer – Congenital Heart Defect