Over the past few decades, there has been a revolution in treating congenital heart defects.  Advances in diagnosis and surgery have made it possible to fix or repair most defects, even those once thought to be hopeless.  Many people with these defects are now reaching adulthood and living full, active lives.  We are proud to say that Carla is one of those survivors. 

 Carla was born with a congenital heart defect and received her first heart surgery at the early age of 4 years old.  Her second surgery took place at 16 years old.  Carla is living a beautiful life filled with love, fitness, and a passion for rescuing dogs, and she is an adult with a congenital heart defect who will need another heart surgery within the next 5 years.