In this powerful episode, Katelyn sits down with Garrett Deiro, a congenital heart disease (CHD) survivor who has a diagnosis of Tetralogy of Fallot and founder of Hearts Like Mine blog. Garrett opens up about his journey through four open heart surgeries, including a life-threatening emergency procedure at age 13 that profoundly shaped his life and years later, has been an instrumental aspect of pursuing his path toward medical school.

For all you boy moms and dads, this conversation offers a male perspective on growing up with CHD, navigating the challenges of adolescence with a heart condition, and choosing to view adversity as a catalyst for purpose rather than a limitation.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The reality of childhood surgeries and what it's like to remember your first major procedure
• How a medical emergency became a turning point
• Processing trauma and choosing your perspective
• Not letting CHD define your limitations
• Staying active and participating in sports with a heart condition
• The evolution from "why me?" to finding purpose
• Creating connection in the CHD community

Hearts Like Mine Blog

Follow Garret on Instagram at @hearts.like.mine.chd

Let’s Connect!

Follow me on Instagram @tinylittleheartspodcast

Follow me on Substack at Tiny Little Hearts Substack

This episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change Network.