We all deserve a healthy and strong heart.

Hi, I'm Orlannymar Mendoza. At the age of 21 I was diagnosed with an atrial septal defect (CIA). It is a heart defect that is present at birth (congenital). A defect characterized by a hole in the wall located between the upper chambers of the heart (atria). Normally, the heart has two sides, which are separated by a muscular wall called the septum. Each side of the heart also has two parts: the upper chamber, called the atrium, and the lower chamber, called the ventricle. The right side of the heart carries deoxygenated blood to the lungs and the left side carries oxygenated blood to the body.

My heart has an CIA and allows oxygenated blood to pass from the left atrium (high pressure), through the hole in the middle of my heart, to the right atrium (low pressure), causing the blood to mix. This leads to increased blood flow to the right side of my heart and lungs. Over time, this "extra" blood volume put stress on my heart, causing the right atrium, ventricle, and pulmonary arteries to dilate (get wider). This eventually led to heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and heart rhythm abnormalities. Very short of breath, palpitations, fatigue, swelling in the legs, feet, or abdomen.

I had open heart surgery when I was 21 years old. Thanks to the doctors they managed to seal the hole in my heart, and I was happy to be able to do the activities that I like so much, like running, swimming, climbing mountains, playing soccer. You know the life that every 21 year old wants.

I moved to this beautiful country when I was 25 years old. And the medical check-ups began, and they diagnosed me that my tricupid valve and my pulmonary valve are dilated. And the right chamber of my heart is dilated.

Today I am 27 years old, and my heart has the CIA again, and it caused damage to my tricupid valve. I am waiting for my second open heart surgery, where my tricuspid valve will be replaced, they will also seal the hole that I have in the middle of my heart.

I share my story with you, because I know that like me, there are many children, adolescents and adults who suffer from congenital heart disease and we all deserve the opportunity to have a strong and healthy heart.

I am presenting symptoms that for now prevent me from continuing with my daily activities such as work and study. That's why I share my story with you. I would like to have the opportunity to be healthy and be able to contribute the best of myself to the people who live here.

I invite all those mothers who are expecting their baby right now, do prenatal follow-up, and guide them about congenital heart disease. A diagnosis in time, is a healthy future.

Blessings to all.

Orlannymar Mendoza.