DALLAS, Feb. 3, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Heart surgery is tough, especially if you are a kid. The resulting physical and emotional scars often leave kids—and adults—feeling embarrassed or ashamed. But Mended Little Hearts (MLH) wants those with congenital heart defects (CHD) to embrace and show off their scars.
The MLH annual Rock Your Scar photo contest invites those battling congenital heart disease to share their scars and show just how tough they are. The contest aims to raise awareness of congenital heart defects and empower those living with CHD. The contest welcomes photo submissions from anyone affected by CHD -- physical scars are not necessary. Parents, family members and friends who have been touched by congenital heart disease are encouraged to submit their photos too.
"This contest is not only an opportunity for the participants to win prizes, but also a chance to show off their bravery and enjoy a boost to their self-esteem," explains Valerie Azlynn, CHD survivor and official spokesperson for the contest. "It's so important for kids, especially, to have a community of support around them. In this day and age it's much easier to rally people far and wide to be proud of who they are and what they have come through, whether it brings physical or emotional scars. Everybody is encouraged to rock his or her attitude and raise awareness for such an important and impactful disease."
The contest is open to those of all ages living with a CHD. Photos should demonstrate empowerment, creativity and individuality. Participants can submit their photos through midnight on Feb. 5 at https://2016rockyourscar.hscampaigns.com/ or go to the 2016 #RockYourScar tab on the Mended Little Hearts National Organization Facebook page.
Congenital heart defects are the most common birth defect in the United States; annually more than 1 million infants are born worldwide with a CHD. An estimated 2 million to 3 million people in the U.S. are living with a CHD.
About Mended Little Hearts
Mended Little Hearts plays a significant role in the lives of families with children diagnosed with CHDs. Through its support group meetings, health education to communities, advocacy for policy and one-on-one visits from parents who have endured the same journey, the organization provides answers for families learning their child will receive a life-saving medical device or procedure. Mended Little Hearts is a program of The Mended Hearts Inc., a non-profit, volunteer-based organization providing hope, help and healing to heart patients and their families since 1951