Every year, we join forces with It's My Heart New England to raise funds to educate, spread awareness, and support families affected by congenital heart defects (CHDs) in the New England area. We hope we can count on your generous support this year!

At first glance, you'd never guess the challenges our son "Super Lucas" has faced due to his congenital heart defects. Like many kids with CHDs, he's been fighting an unseen battle since before birth.

When I was 20 weeks pregnant, doctors detected multiple CHDs in Lucas, which allowed us to seek the best care at Boston Children's Hospital. Just eight days old, he underwent his first life-saving open-heart surgery to repair coarctation of the aorta, ventricular septal defects, and atrial septal defects. Complications led to a tracheotomy, gastrostomy surgery, and a 10-month stay in the ICU before coming home.

A month before turning two, Lucas had his second open-heart surgery - a subaortic resection. In the years since he's endured over 15 additional surgeries and numerous cardiac catheterizations. True to his "Super Lucas" nickname, he has recovered from each procedure with the biggest smile!

Despite all he's been through, Lucas is a happy, curious, and energetic boy who loves dancing, playing outside, riding his bike, and exploring the world around him.

Please help us meet our fundraising goals so It's My Heart New England can continue supporting families affected by congenital heart defects like ours. Your donation makes a real difference!