02/12/2026
🌟 Meet Diya Chandran — Congenital Heart Defect Survivor & Youth Heart Ambassador! ❤️
Born with Transposition of the Greater Arteries, Diya underwent her first open‑heart surgery at just one week old. After multiple surgeries—her last at age four—she now stands strong as a high school student using her voice to inspire others.
As a Youth Heart Ambassador with the American Heart Association, Diya shares her story to raise awareness about CHD and the importance of heart health at every age. She leads efforts through her school’s Kids Heart Challenge and works closely with the local Heart team to advocate for healthier communities.
With courage, confidence, and a passion for helping others, Diya is truly an inspiring leader for kids with special hearts. ❤️✨
February 7-14 is CHD Awareness Week.
Did you know that approximately 2.4 million children and adults are thought to be living in the U.S. with congenital heart disease?
Congenital heart defects, which are structural abnormalities of the heart present at birth, are the most common type of birth defect in the U.S. These defects can involve the heart muscle, valves, walls (septa) or major blood vessels connected to the heart.