Charity | It's Learning Time

Warning Signs of Heart Failure in Infants

Warning Signs of Heart Failure in Infants February marks American Heart Month and a national movement to wear red in recognition of staying heart healthy. It represents a cause that I advocate for every day.

My son was diagnosed with Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome when he was 15 days old. You’ve probably read my article about that day or may have even heard my story first-hand. It was an ordeal I hope no parent ever has to go through. And I’m sure you’ll agree.

But what have you done to educate yourself on the warning signs of heart failure in infants and children?

According to the American Heart Association, the term “heart failure” describes a heart that is not functioning properly. And since heart failure can be caused in many different ways, it’s important to know how to recognize it happening in your child.

For infants, heart failure can present itself in the form of lethargy, breathing trouble (watch for lips turning color), poor feeding or rapid heartbeat. Unfortunately, these symptoms can also often occur as a result of the common cold or fever, making it hard to determine the severity of the illness. If you suspect your child’s symptoms may be more severe, call your doctor right away and get your baby seen asap.

Heart failure can happen to even the youngest of children – even if the statistics say otherwise. Wolff-Parkinson-White for example, usually manifests itself in teens or adults. Gavin wasn’t even a month old when diagnosed. I feel very strongly that as mothers, it’s important we recognize the symptoms of heart failure and know to seek professional medical help immediately.

You can learn more about various heart diseases or to donate to the American Heart Association by visiting their website. You can also locate a CPR course near you by visiting the Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) Class Connector.

The Company Store donates Comforters to Homeless Children

We get a lot of catalogs in our house. We are even receiving catalogs addressed to the old owners of our house. And even though I’ve opted out of unwanted junk mail and catalogs, they still seem to keep coming.

Typically they just get thrown away, but today’s mail brought the January 2012 catalog for The Company Store. The Company Store is known for its bedding and down comforters, but what I also learned when I opened this catalog, is their philanthropic endeavors.

During the month of January 2012, for every comforter that is purchased, The Company Store will donate a comforter to a homeless child. One for every comforter sold this month. Buy One, Give One.

So if you’re in the market to buy some new bedding this year, take a look at The Company Store, and see if you can help them make a difference in a child’s life.

PS: If you know of any other organizations doing great things, please let us know about it! Thanks!