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Posts by Ryan Leist

We have had dozens of bloggers since this blog began who have been so open with their stories. If you are interested in blogging, too, we'd love to hear from you. Please email info@achaheart.org.

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The Way CHD Influenced My Career

by Ryan Leist on Thursday, Jun 12, 2014

Since I was in middle school I knew I wanted to be an accountant. I know the stereotypical image of an accountant is someone who carries a pocket protector and does taxes, but all the career tests I took growing up recommended it based on my interests and personality type. Another test as part of the career process in high school was the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).

The day in high school we took the ASVAB was September 11, 2001. It was ironic to be taking the armed services test the day of the notorious terrorist attacks. I will never forget the United States of America military personnel turning on the television in the library to see the second plane hit the tower. From that moment on, I wanted to serve in the military; however, with a congenital heart defect, I was unsure I would be able to.

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A Successful Night with ACHA and the Indiana Pacers

by Ryan Leist on Friday, Feb 07, 2014

My first involvement with the Adult Congenital Heart Association was last May at the Congenital Heart Walk in Indianapolis. I signed up to be a volunteer to check out what the organization was like and it turned out to be a life-changing experience.

Growing up in a small town, I never encountered anyone with heart defects, so going to an event to meet so many kids and adults was overwhelming. After speaking with others, I felt so lucky to live a relatively normal life with CHD thus far and I wanted to do my part to help raise awareness and funds for ACHA.

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Disclaimer

The opinions expressed by ACHA bloggers and those providing comments on the ACHA Blog are theirs alone, and do not reflect the opinions of the Adult Congenital Heart Association or any employee thereof. ACHA is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by the ACHA bloggers.

The contents of this blog are presented for informational purposes only, and should not be substituted for professional advice. Always consult your physicians with your questions and concerns.

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