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Posts by Karla Deal

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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A Lifelong Lesson: "I Got This"

by Karla Deal on Friday, Mar 14, 2025

In February 2012, during Heart Month no less, my adult congenital cardiologist told me that it was time to replace my pulmonary valve via open heart surgery. This would be my second open heart surgery, the first taking place when I was nine months old. Open heart surgery felt too mysterious for my taste, even with all the helpful information provided by my adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) care team. Being the kind of person who feels most comfortable with a thoughtful plan and lots of information, I felt that I would benefit from peer support while I prepared for my heart surgery. However, what I didn’t expect was the long-lasting positive impact connecting with a peer would have on my life.

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Peer Mentor Review: Healing Hearts and Minds

by Karla Deal on Monday, Feb 06, 2023

Healing Hearts and Minds: A Holistic Approach to Coping Well with Congenital Heart Disease is an utterly unique book. Tracy Livecchi, LCSW (ACHA’s longtime Heart to Heart Program & Mental Health Consultant), and Liza Morton, PhD, combine their professional expertise with their personal experience as patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) to empower their readers. Their work gives much needed attention to the emotional experience of living with CHD, providing every reader with compassion, tools, resources, and hope.

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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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