Revitalize your spirit and connect with the vibrant congenital heart defect (CHD) community through 'Heart to Heart with Anna,' the pioneering podcast that has been inspiring and informing listeners since 11-12-13. Join us as we dive deep into the personal journeys, triumphs, and challenges of Survivors, their loved ones, esteemed medical professionals, and other remarkable individuals within the CHD community. With unwavering dedication, our heartfelt conversations bring to light the storie ...
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"Bereaved But Still Me" is a podcast for the bereaved community that was formerly known as "Heart to Heart with Michael." As we entered Season 5, we decided to rebrand our podcast to make it easier for the bereaved community to find us. We are happy to announce that "Heart to Heart with Michael," was nominated for a 2020 WEGO Health Award. "Heart to Heart with Michael" was a finalist in the Health Podcast category. This was a great honor for our podcast. "Bereaved But Still Me" is a product ...
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No Cure, Just Courage: Navigating Life with Congenital Heart Disease
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54:10Send us a text What happens when you've spent your whole life thinking your heart condition was "fixed," only to discover it's actually a lifelong journey? Elle Pendrick shares this profound revelation that came after her fourth open-heart surgery, forever changing how she understood her congenital heart disease. Born in 1983 with complex CHD in ru…
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Putting Around for a Purpose: Golf, Heart Warriors, and Small-Town Magic
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37:06Send us a text A broken wrist serves as an unexpected metaphor for the heart warrior's journey in this illuminating conversation with fundraiser and podcaster Amy Earhart. When Anna's recent accident left her with a titanium plate and a new perspective on recovery, it highlighted the resilience that characterizes the CHD community—adapting when our…
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When Loss Becomes a Gift: Finding Meaning in Grief
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36:08Send us a text Grief is not simply the absence of someone we love—it can also be the absence of what we deserved but never received. In this profound conversation with counselor and trauma specialist Fonda Miller, we explore the often-overlooked dimensions of loss and healing that shape our emotional lives. Fonda shares a perspective on grief that …
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When Loss Becomes a Gift: Finding Meaning in Grief
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36:09Grief is not simply the absence of someone we love—it can also be the absence of what we deserved but never received. In this profound conversation with counselor and trauma specialist Fonda Miller, we explore the often-overlooked dimensions of loss and healing that shape our emotional lives. Fonda shares a perspective on grief that transforms how …
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Send us a text In dieser speziellen deutschsprachigen Episode von 'Herz zu Herz mit Anna' spricht Jodi Alderfel mit Marina Lohri, die mit Trikuspidalatresie, ASD und VSD geboren wurde und eine modifizierte Fontan-Operation überlebte. Marina teilt ihre lebenslange Reise, von ihrer Herzoperation als Baby bis hin zu ihrer Karriere bei atHeart Medical,…
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Carrying Grief Forward Doesn't Mean Leaving Love Behind
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30:02(00:00:00) Carrying Grief Forward Doesn't Mean Leaving Love Behind (00:00:47) Introduction to Host and Guest (00:02:09) Mother's Cancer Diagnosis and Family Hope (00:04:16) The Hospice Experience (00:10:10) Announcement and Disclaimer (00:10:56) Sister Jackie's Struggle with Alcoholism (00:17:37) Understanding Ambiguous Loss (00:21:31) Finding Joy …
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Carrying Grief Forward Doesn't Mean Leaving Love Behind
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30:01Send us a text Award-winning journalist Dina Gachman takes us on a profound journey through the landscape of loss, sharing how the deaths of her mother from cancer and sister from alcoholism transformed her understanding of grief. With remarkable candor, Dina reveals the unexpected realities of home hospice care—administering morphine every few hou…
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When Hearts and Minds Unite: Navigating Neurodevelopment in CHD
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56:13Send us a text The journey of raising a child with a critical congenital heart defect (CCHD) involves navigating far more than just medical challenges. Behind every heart surgery and cardiology appointment lies a complex web of developmental considerations that can profoundly shape a child's future. Dr. Dawn Ilardi, a clinical neuropsychologist wit…
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From Tetralogy of Fallot to Changing State Law: Sara Bonneau's Unstoppable Mission
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45:24Send us a text When Sara Bonneau's newborn son was diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot, she had no roadmap for the journey ahead. In this raw and powerful conversation, she takes us through the evolution of parenting a child with a serious heart defect—from the terrifying early days without social media support groups to watching her son become a co…
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BBSM Navigating Trauma and Resilience: Strategies for Hope in Uncertain Times with Hanny Sidis and Toni Alexander
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30:31Imagine living in a war zone, where the constant threat of rocket attacks shapes daily life. This is the reality for Hanny Sidis, an occupational dance and mind-body therapist from Israel. In our conversation, she shares her unique therapeutic approach to processing emotions through movement, even amidst air raids. Alongside her, Toni Alexander, an…
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Navigating Trauma and Resilience: Strategies for Hope in Uncertain Times with Hanny Sidis and Toni Alexander
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30:30Send us a text Imagine living in a war zone, where the constant threat of rocket attacks shapes daily life. This is the reality for Hanny Sidis, an occupational dance and mind-body therapist from Israel. In our conversation, she shares her unique therapeutic approach to processing emotions through movement, even amidst air raids. Alongside her, Ton…
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How Research is Reshaping Lives in Congenital Heart Disease
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1:01:15Send us a text In this engaging episode of Heart to Heart with Anna, we dive into the significant strides made in pediatric cardiology, focusing on hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) and the inspiring journey of dedicated professionals like Dr. Paul Grossfeld. This episode highlights the complex nature of congenital heart disease, exploring not…
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A Mother's Grief Story: Fiona Kanter on Losing a Daughter to Murder
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39:04Fiona Kanter's journey from heart-wrenching grief to a source of hope and support for others is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. She joins us to share the painful loss of her daughter, Lee Gabriella, and how this tragedy has become a catalyst for her advocacy work in trauma and bereavement. Our conversation oscillates between poig…
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A Mother's Grief Story: Fiona Kanter on Losing a Daughter to Murder
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39:03Send us a text Fiona Kanter's journey from heart-wrenching grief to a source of hope and support for others is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. She joins us to share the painful loss of her daughter, Lee Gabriella, and how this tragedy has become a catalyst for her advocacy work in trauma and bereavement. Our conversation oscillat…
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Navigating Personal Advocacy: Empowering Journeys in Heart Health with Emily Falcon and Anna Jaworski
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43:36Send us a text Emily Falcon's journey with a rare heart condition is nothing short of inspiring. After multiple heart surgeries, she defied the odds and became a dedicated 5K athlete, showcasing resilience that many find empowering. Joined by Jenn Dimas from the Fort Worth Public Library, Emily shares how literature has been a powerful companion in…
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Uniting Communities for Better Heart Care Outcomes with Kate Doherty-Schmeck
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34:12Send us a text After facing the heart-wrenching loss of a beloved family matriarch to a once-benign heart condition, I am reminded of the fragile nature of life and the critical importance of heart health. Join me as we explore these deeply personal connections to heart disease and the heartfelt stories of families who navigate these challenges wit…
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From Heartache to Healing: Izumi Favia's Transformation Through Grief
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25:10After the heart-wrenching loss of her young daughter Alyce to a rare cancer, Izumi Favia decided to turn her grief into a guiding light for others. In this poignant episode, we invite you to listen to Izumi's heartfelt story of love, loss, and the profound journey she undertook to rebuild her life. From the unexpected joy of a natural pregnancy to …
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From Heartache to Healing: Izumi Favia's Transformation Through Grief
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25:09Send us a text After the heart-wrenching loss of her young daughter Alyce to a rare cancer, Izumi Favia decided to turn her grief into a guiding light for others. In this poignant episode, we invite you to listen to Izumi's heartfelt story of love, loss, and the profound journey she undertook to rebuild her life. From the unexpected joy of a natura…
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2024 Top Ten "Heart to Heart with Anna" Episodes & More!
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21:08Send us a text Can an unexpected adventure in Kraków teach you about resilience and support? Join me, Anna Jaworski, as I recount a thrilling axe-throwing escapade with my husband, Frank, which became an unexpected metaphor for our family's journey with our courageous daughter, Hope, who battles a congenital heart defect. In this episode of Heart t…
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Celebrating 11 Years: Heartfelt Reflections and Future Innovations in Heart to Heart with Anna
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49:48Send us a text After an unexpected illness during a trip to Poland, I found myself in a reflective state, pondering the journey of "Heart to Heart with Anna" and what lies ahead. This episode is a heartfelt celebration of our 11-year milestone, filled with gratitude for the community that has grown alongside us. I introduce you to some key figures …
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Finding Resilience After Heartbreak: The "Still Loved" Mission
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29:02Send us a text What if the most devastating experiences of your life could become a beacon of hope for others? Autumn and Brandon Cohen join us to share their profound journey through loss and resilience, starting with the stillbirth of their son, Bastion, in March 2020, and extending to the loss of Brandon's brother in December 2022. They open up …
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Finding Resilience After Heartbreak: The "Still Loved" Mission
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29:03What if the most devastating experiences of your life could become a beacon of hope for others? Autumn and Brandon Cohen join us to share their profound journey through loss and resilience, starting with the stillbirth of their son, Bastion, in March 2020, and extending to the loss of Brandon's brother in December 2022. They open up about the heart…
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Inside HeartWorks: A New Era in Heart Disease Treatment
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41:12Send us a text Unlock the future of heart care and understand how a revolutionary cooperative platform is reshaping the landscape of congenital heart disease treatment. Join us as we explore the groundbreaking innovations at HeartWorks, a transformative program at the Mayo Clinic led by Dr. Tim Nelson. With heartfelt insights from Erin Borkowski, a…
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Fit and Fearless: Defying Limits with Tetralogy of Fallot
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38:15Send us a text Ever thought you could lead an exhilarating life despite a congenital heart defect? Meet Ben Johnson, a formidable heart warrior born with tetralogy of Fallot. Tune in as Ben, now 45, recounts his spirited childhood and how his heart condition didn't stop him from being a vibrant, active child. From hospital memories to a loving fami…
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Podcasting as a Pathway to Healing and Hope
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40:42What if a shared journey through loss could spark an inspiring platform that brings healing to countless others? Welcome to the eighth season of "Bereaved But Still Me," where our personal stories intertwine with hope and resilience. Join me, Michael LIben, alongside my dear friends and colleagues, executive producer Anna Jaworski and producer Nanc…
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Podcasting as a Pathway to Healing and Hope
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40:41Send us a text What if a shared journey through loss could spark an inspiring platform that brings healing to countless others? Welcome to the eighth season of "Bereaved But Still Me," where our personal stories intertwine with hope and resilience. Join me, Michael LIben, alongside my dear friends and colleagues, executive producer Anna Jaworski an…
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October 2024 Heart to Heart Live: From Trick-or-Treat to Compassion Fatigue
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40:09Send us a text Do Halloween festivities bring more joy or concern when you’re living with a congenital heart defect? Ashley DeMarco shares her journey growing up with complex heart conditions, turning personal challenges into stories of resilience. Alongside her, we hear from Michael Liben, who navigates grief with humor on his podcast "Bereaved bu…
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Writing Through Loss: Two Heart Moms' Stories of Healing and Connection
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27:38Can a story of loss become a beacon of hope for others navigating the difficult journey of bereavement? Join us as Sheri Turner and Desiree Vaught share their poignant personal experiences with congenital heart defects and the profound impact on their lives. Sheri opens up about the loss of her firstborn, Thomas, and the challenges of raising her s…
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Writing Through Loss: Two Heart Moms' Stories of Healing and Connection
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27:37Send us a text Can a story of loss become a beacon of hope for others navigating the difficult journey of bereavement? Join us as Sheri Turner and Desiree Vaught share their poignant personal experiences with congenital heart defects and the profound impact on their lives. Sheri opens up about the loss of her firstborn, Thomas, and the challenges o…
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From Survivor to Supporter: Marina Lohri's Tricuspid Atresia Journey in Congenital Heart Care
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34:48Send us a text Meet Marina Lohri, a true trailblazer in the world of congenital heart defects (CHDs). Born with tricuspid atresia, a ventricular septal defect, and an atrial septal defect, Marina’s journey from a life-saving C-section to being among the first in Switzerland to undergo a modified-Fontan procedure at just 11 months old is nothing sho…
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Unlocking Neurodevelopmental Breakthroughs: Impact of CHDs and Parental Influence
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43:37Send us a text Unlock the latest in cardiac neurodevelopmental research with Dr. Dawn Ilardi, a distinguished clinical neuropsychologist, as we navigate the complexities of how congenital heart defects (CHDs) impact children's neurodevelopment. Discover the groundbreaking strides made by the Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Outcome Collaborative (CNOC), …
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Heart to Heart LIVE : An Open Mic with Anna and Her Community
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51:43Send us a text How do families navigate the uncharted waters of raising children with congenital heart disease (CHD)? Join us on a groundbreaking episode of Heart to Heart with Anna, where we host our very first live show with a studio audience! With guests like Amanda, Joey, Michael, Ayrton, Regina, Rachel, and Chris, you'll hear raw and honest co…
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Exploring the Therapeutic Power of Writing with Megan Tones and Sheri Turner
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47:15Send us a text How do you condense a lifetime of experiences into a single essay? Megan Tones reveals the challenges and triumphs of contributing to the "Heart of a Heart Warrior" anthology, where she found a way to spotlight positivity amid adversity. Joined by Sheri Turner, a supportive beta reader and CHD advocate, we explore how storytelling ca…
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From Diagnosis to Advocacy: The Brave Little Hearts South Africa Story
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45:08Send us a text What does it take to recognize the early signs of congenital heart defects (CHD) in a newborn? In this emotionally charged episode of "Heart to Heart with Anna," we welcome Raadhiyah Matthews, who recounts her harrowing journey with her daughter Thaakirah. From the initial dismissals by medical professionals to the profound struggles…
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Honoring a Beacon of Strength: Uri Lahav's Life and Legacy
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29:58How do you measure the impact of a life well-lived, especially when that life is cut short by illness? Join us as we uncover the incredible journey of Uri Lahav through the heartfelt stories of his parents, Elisheva and Michael. From their daring move from the United States to Israel to raising a family in a foreign land amid the backdrop of war, t…
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Honoring a Beacon of Strength: Uri Lahav's Life and Legacy
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29:57Send us a text How do you measure the impact of a life well-lived, especially when that life is cut short by illness? Join us as we uncover the incredible journey of Uri Lahav through the heartfelt stories of his parents, Elisheva and Michael. From their daring move from the United States to Israel to raising a family in a foreign land amid the bac…
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Unexpected Diagnoses: DiGeorge (22q11.2 deletion) Syndrome in the Lawrence Family
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34:30Send us a text What would you do if you suddenly discovered that multiple members of your family were living with an intricate genetic condition? Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Regina Lawrence as she opens up about her family's journey with DiGeorge syndrome (a.k.a. 22q11.2 deletion syndrome). From the moment they learned about Aubrey's …
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Discovering a Myocardial Bridge at 65: Jeff's Journey to Heart Health Advocacy
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31:47Send us a text Have you ever ignored a small discomfort only to realize it was something far more serious? Join us on "Heart to Heart with Anna" for an eye-opening conversation with Jeff, the creator and host of a non-profit podcast network, who discovered a congenital heart defect called a myocardial bridge at the age of 65. Jeff recounts his terr…
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From Heart Block to Myotonic Dystrophy: A Survivor's Tale
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33:30Send us a text What if your heart's rhythm was out of sync from birth, yet you persevered to defy medical odds? Join us as Gwenyth Murphy, a resilient second-generation congenital heart defect survivor, shares her compelling journey of managing complete heart block and other heart conditions. From coping with an abnormally low heart rate as a child…
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Navigating Life with HLHS and Marfan Syndrome: Rachael's Powerful Story
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31:44Send us a text Discover the remarkable resilience of Rachael Gott, our extraordinary guest born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). Despite her condition remaining uncorrected, Rachel has navigated a complex medical journey, including ten cardiac ablations and two device implants, all while avoiding open-heart surgeries. Rachael also faces…
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Balancing Love and Reality in Dementia Caregiving: Insights from Karmon Hill
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30:02Have you ever wondered how to navigate the emotional maze of caring for a parent with dementia? Join us as Karmon Hill opens her heart and shares her poignant journey of moving her mother across states and ultimately finding her a memory care facility. We discuss the delicate balance of respecting her mother’s past as an esteemed educator while con…
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