February is American Heart Month

February is Heart Month in the United States. Children with Down syndrome have about a 40-50% incidence of congenital heart disease (CHD).

Here at Gigi’s Playhouse Tinley Park, many of our participants have congenital heart defects. There are families here to support other families, provide resources, and relate to the complexities of managing children with congenital heart defects. 

One of our participants, Hope, had open heart surgery at 5 months old. Hope is now 2 years old. You can see her at GiGi’s Playhouse Tinley Park at open play pushing a toy stroller, Music in Motion dancing, or Leaps and Bounds making crafts!  

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Another participant, RJ, had open heart surgery at 4 months old and again at 1.5 years old. RJ is now 4 years old. You can see him at GiGi’s Playhouse Tinley Park at Music in Motion singing, running, and dancing or Leaps and Bounds listening to story time and enjoying a fake snowball fight!

We look forward to meeting you and seeing you at GiGi’s Playhouse Tinley Park!