The "Cardiac Kids” arrived for breakfast dressed in their holiday best.
Sporting plastic holly barrettes and matching tights, a little girl toddled behind a pint-sized walker. A boy in a checked vest made friends with Hudson, a dog rescued after a devastating injury on train tracks. At least one party guest was a babe in arms.
The festive event, sponsored by The American Heart Association of the Capital Region and held Dec. 11 at NYSUT headquarters, gave 30 area children an exclusive morning with Santa before the holiday rush got into full gear. And for their siblings and parents, it was a fun-filled time as well.
Because the families share a common journey, “it's nice to take a little time at the end of the year to just be together and be thankful,” said Cardiac Kids parent coordinator Jennifer Corcoran-Conway.
“NYSUT is honored to help the American Heart Association provide a festive morning for these very special little guests and their families,” said NYSUT President Karen E. Magee, who served as chair of the Capital Region's 2016 Heart Walk.
The party celebrated the strength and resilience of children born with congenital heart defects. The Cardiac Kids support group meets regularly and is a resource for families.
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