SAN ANTONIO – Founded in 2000, HeartGift specializes in providing corrective surgeries to children worldwide who are born with congenital heart defects (CHD), particularly in regions where medical care is limited or unavailable. Congenital heart defects are the most common type of birth defect and affect 1 in 100 babies globally each year, according to HeartGift.
To help with this disparity, HeartGift works to identify the patients in need. Once identified, doctors provide correctional surgery so that the children will have a chance at a normal functioning heart and healthier life.
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For the past 25 years, the nonprofit has served more than 1,400 children from 36 countries. At HeartGift, the mission to aid children in need of corrective surgery goes beyond financial contributions.
Children and their caregivers who are identified to undergo surgery travel far from their home country to a portion of the world they are not familiar with. Volunteers play a crucial role in the mission. Host Families or Event Volunteers are just a couple of ways to join the cause and help the patient acclimate during their heart journey.
Art for the Heart
On Feb. 27, a charity auction will be held at University Health, Women and Children’s Hospital. This special event begins at 6 p.m., offering a unique opportunity to bid on original art pieces. The proceeds from Art for the Heart will support HeartGift’s mission to provide lifesaving surgeries for children with congenital heart defects.
HeartGift’s purpose is to provide the necessary surgery including funds, coordination of care, and medical services for children with congenital heart defects (CHD) living in countries where specialized medical treatments is scarce or nonexistent. Established in June of 2000, HeartGift began its work in Austin, Texas and now has additional service locations in Houston, Louisiana, and San Antonio, and partnerships around the globe.
KSAT Community operates in partnership with University Health, and Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union. Click here to read about other KSAT Community efforts.
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