Advice from Heart Parents to new Heart Parents

Start therapy now. ;)

Don't sweat the small stuff :)

My advice comes and goes but I would suggest asking many questions, searching for every piece of information on your childs heart

doctors don't have the last say in the outcome!

to filter out the bad stories.. focus on the positives, take notes (don't be afraid to ask tons of questions even if you think you already asked them) and get all the facts that you can grab. Get support. And lastly, trust your gut..

To make a note of a memory everyday. Live and love with all your heart and don't be afraid to ask for help.

To never feel alone, you are not the only parents starting out in the CHD world.

All of the above!! ALL OF IT!!!

I agree a lot with dawn. Every case is different just go day by day and don’t try to compare your child with another, it will drive you nuts! believe me.

That you have been given a gift because you are strong enough to handle it.......that gift is the realization of how precious every single minute of every single day really, truly is!!

I know its overwhelming, but you are stronger than you realize.

You are not alone and enjoy every moment and take pictures even with tubes and wires etc.

To never give up hope and reach out to those around you for help. You are alot stronger then you ever realized you could be and that strength will come through when you least expect it to and you think you can't go on. Find other in your community with CHD's to talk to as no one knows better what your going through then another CHD family.

BREATHE!!! Sleep when you can and remember that there is NEVER a stupid question asked. It is ok to cry, no one will think any less of you. You have a family with this community.

First, Do NOT look up anything online. You have no idea how old that info is!!!
　
Never stop Believing, and take care of yourself,
　
Cry when you need to cry, scream when you need to scream and laugh when you need to laugh...Its ok to be angry and find a doctor you trust, hold on tight and lean on your support system

I agree with all but also write everything down also its over before you know it and your child is just another child. Don't worry about the future.

Never give up hope, try and stay positive, live each moment like it is your last, and always remember you know what is best for your child. The doctors, therapists and you all work together as a TEAM! You could not do it with out them and that can not do it without you!