Superheros from all walks of life are invited to unleash their hidden powers by participating in the Be A Hero For HeartKids fundraising event this Friday 18 June.
To show support for kids living with childhood heart disease (CHD), the event encourages people to dress up in their favourite superhero costume, or participate in a variety of superhero activities, including special superhero challenges.
According to HeartKids, CHD is the leading cause of death in Australian babies under the age of one, it is a lifelong condition and there is no known cure.
One local superhero is 21-year-old Hetty Toze. During a 20-week ultrasound while in utero, Ms Toze was diagnosed with CHD, changing her life and her family’s life in a heartbeat.
She now requires a permanent pacemaker and often visits Prince Charles Hospital in Brisbane for ongoing tests and check-ups.
Ms Toze is using her voice to advocate for influencing government policy in transitioning to adulthood framework and is calling on ACT residents to show support for the eight children born with a heart defect in Australia every day.
Money raised by participants during Be A Hero For Heartkids will offer help for families with children undergoing heart surgery, with hospital support services, a helpline, parent networking programs and much needed financial support for those doing it tough.
HeartKids CEO Fiona Ellis said HeartKids’ is on a mission to help the 65,000 Australians who show strength and courage every day as they battle congenital heart disease.
“Those affected by CHD fight their own battle for survival every day and rely on the many support services that HeartKids provides,” she said.
“HeartKids is there to ensure they can live the most fulfilling life possible and reach their personal goals. Hero for HeartKids is an opportunity for the Australian community to harness their superhuman powers and be a positive force, directly helping seriously ill children and their families.”
To Be A Hero For HeartKids, superheros are encouraged to create a fundraising page for their colleagues, friends, family and community to show support.
To register or to donate, visit www.hero4heartkids.org.au
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