Heart Hero Alivia Gardner

Alivia was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome; meaning the left side of her heart was underdeveloped. Luckily, her parents and doctors knew this before Alivia was born and were able to take measures to keep her as healthy as possible. She has had four open-heart surgeries and nine cardiac catheterizations.

Alivia’s favorite thing to do is color and paint. She likes to use watercolors and paints many pictures for her mom and dad. Alivia’s parents have experienced the lifesaving research of American Heart Association funded researchers firsthand. They know how important this is in saving little hearts like hers.

By participating in events like the Kids Heart Challenge, Alivia brings awareness of the many ways the students, parents and teachers at her school can help children with heart defects.