Every week, 12 babies are born with a heart condition in NZ (one child per 100). In addition a number of children acquire a heart condition as a result of Rheumatic Fever, Cardiomyopathy or Kawasaki Disease. The severity of conditions can range from a simple hole in the heart to a highly complex combination of conditions and most require surgical intervention.
Heart Kids provides functional and emotional support to kids, teens, adults and families affected by childhood heart conditions. In fact, we are the only organisation in New Zealand dedicated to providing lifelong care for those affected by the world's most common birth defect and heart disease acquired during childhood.
Heart Kids Canterbury is one of the affiliated branches of Heart Kids NZ. We are a group of parents and caregivers of children with heart conditions. We know from firsthand experience how important at home support is and we are dedicated to helping others with similar needs. Our Family support workers visit families at home and in the hospital. They listen, inform and support. They deliver emotional, practical and financial support. Addionally we provide events to help heart children and families coinnect with others.
Canterbury heart children travel to Auckland's Paediatric Cardiac Unit for their surgery and treatment. Many are away from home for long periods of time, leaving their jobs, family members and support networks. This adds to the financial and emotional stress of coping with an unwell child. Our Family Support Workers are there to help through such difficult times.
Heart Kids Canterbury supports heart kids and thier families every step of the way on their heart journey.
We rely on donations and fundraising to provide services.
If you would like to become a member of Heart Kids Canterbury please click here to download our application form.
