Whereas, Medical research shows that congenital heart disease is one of the most common birth defects and is the leading cause of birth-defect related deaths; and,

Whereas, Many babies born with congenital heart defects do not survive to adulthood because of a lack of donor hearts, unsuccessful medical attention or the defect not being detected until days, weeks, months or even years after birth; and,

Whereas, Medical professionals have identified at least 35 heart defects and that research remains to be done regarding origins, physical signs, symptoms and surgical options regarding congenital heart defects; and,

Whereas, Children and adults with congenital heart defects, their families and medical professionals have joined together to raise awareness about this disease; and therefore be it,