Each year in February, The Mended Hearts, Inc. (MHI) celebrates and recognizes American Heart Month by raising awareness of the impact of cardiovascular disease and the importance of peer-to-peer support.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States with almost half of all people living with some form of cardiovascular disease. Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the number one birth defect in the United States. One out of every 110 children is born with a congenital heart defect(s).
Despite these alarming statistics, many people are unaware of the devastating effect heart disease can have on patients and families.
After a heart event people often have questions about how their life will change and what the future will hold. People can experience depression, anger, anxiety, and sadness, and they often have questions about nutrition, exercise, medication, cardiac rehabilitation, and more. Even with the full support of family and friends, heart patients and caregivers can feel alone and that no one understands what they are going through.
The Mended Hearts, Inc. has been supporting, educating and advocating for heart patients, families and caregivers for over 70 years, bringing awareness to issues that those living with heart disease face, and advocating to improve quality of life across the lifespan.
Locally, the Top of Ohio Mended Hearts Chapter meets on the fourth Thursday of each month at 6 p.m., on the first floor conference room of the Mary Rutan Health Center, 1134 N. Main St., Bellefontaine. (The group does not convene in July, August or November this year.)
The next meeting is 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 22.
Through the peer-to-peer support groups, accredited visiting programs, community events, advocacy efforts, Heartbeat Magazine, and educational materials and resources, MHI has provided hope, help and healing to millions. To learn more about the world’s largest heart support organization and how we can help, visit www.Mendedhearts.org or call 1-888-HEART99 (1-888-432-7899).
For more information about the local Mended Hearts chapter, the services it offers, and how you can get involved, contact Top of Ohio Chapter President Bruce Norris at (937) 919-7213.
