“We had a great turnout, over 300 people, and raised over $62,000,” reported Ire Opayemi, a University of Connecticut School of Medicine student pursuing her MD and Master of Public Health, class of 2025. “I think it was a great example of how involved University of Connecticut School of Medicine students are in the community we serve and how we are spreading awareness about CHD.”
Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common birth defect in the United States, affecting 1 in 100 babies each year. Despite this prevalence, CHD research and programs are severely underfunded.
UConn Health students participated in a one-mile walk through downtown West Hartford. The Connecticut Walk for One in 100 is one of 15 similar events ACHA is hosting across the country this year to raise funds for expanding family and community support, education and research.
“The Adult Congenital Heart Disease Association is a wonderful organization that has done so much for the community by providing important education and support groups for people living with congenital heart disease. As medical and dental students at the University of Connecticut, we are working to show that we care deeply about people living with congenital heart disease and are committed to raising awareness in the broader community,” said Opayemi of the University of Connecticut.
He added, “We aim to improve healthcare professionals’ understanding of congenital heart disease, develop healthcare professionals who specialise in this field and ensure everyone has an experience that allows them to connect and empathise with the patients they care for. This year we have seen huge interest from students as well as the local community. We are coming together to show that we are serious about supporting and empowering people with congenital heart disease.”
Funds raised from the Connecticut Walk benefit the ACHA Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) Accreditation Program, which works to improve and standardize care for ACHD patients nationwide. Additionally, the Walk for One in 100 helps fund cutting-edge medical research, advocacy, and a variety of education and outreach activities.
