Let’s talk about acyanotic congenital heart defects! These defects don’t typically cause cyanosis (bluish skin) because blood flow still delivers enough oxygen to the body. However, they often involve increased blood flow to the lungs (left-to-right shunt), which can lead to complications over time. There are four main types you need to know: ❤️ Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) ➡️ failure of the ductus arteriosus to close ❤️ Atrial septal defect (ASD) ➡️ opening between the atria ❤️ Ventricular se

“Esme’s heart condition is part of her story, but it doesn't define who she is or what she will achieve.” Born in 2021 with a congenital heart condition, Atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD), Esme underwent open‑heart surgery at just 6 months old. She still lives with a leaky valve and will face further surgery in the future, but her family chooses to focus on everything she can do right now. Esme is resilient, determined, endlessly curious, and already a BHF Young Heart Hero Award winner in 20