Cousin
My name is Kerry Stribble, and I'm writing this note with hopes that our CHD children will not be overlooked. My cousin, Shannon Carter, just recently gave birth to her son who was diagnosed with HLHS. Shannon and her family found out about their son's condition when she was twenty weeks pregnant. As soon as I heard about this, I immediately began researching congenital heart defects. It's the #1 birth defect in the world, and I never knew anything about this.
Our families' newest addition was born on April 20, 2009. The first word that I think of when I think about Shannon and her family is amazing. "Little Derrick" has the strongest parents I have ever known. To listen to their story, motivates you to become a stronger and better parent. It makes you stop worrying about such trivial issues and really focus on what's important in life. This is what I have learned from the Carters.
With their story in mind, I am asking that we, as a country, totally fund research for our amazing "heart kids". We must raise awareness so that others are informed about this critical matter. If our children have our support, there will be hope for all.
Thank you for your time,
Kerry Stribble