Background, Aims & Mission
In 1980, Linda Davies and Michelle Mann met in Green Lane* Hospital. Their newborn babies were suffering from major heart problems, and sadly both children died in 1981. From their experiences, Linda and Michelle realised there was very little written information for parents of a heart child and they felt a book was needed.
When they left hospital Linda and Michelle spent a great deal of time finding information and surveying other families with a heart child. In 1983 the book "Heart Children" was published and made available free to parents of children who had a heart condition.
While they had set out only with the intention of writing a book, Linda and Michelle soon found themselves acting in a much needed support role to other families "going through" Green Lane Hospital. Over a period of time, as families returned to their own part of New Zealand, a network of support groups was established.
This network was co-ordinated by the Auckland group who formalised themselves as Heart Children Incorporated in 1984. The organisation continued to grow and in August 1994 a national board was elected. A new constitution was adopted in 1995 and the organisation renamed Heart Children New Zealand Inc. Visit our Contact Info for your nearest group.
Above: Michelle Mann and Linda Davies, founders of Heart Children and co-authors of the book cutting the cake at the 15 year celebration of Heart Children in Auckland.
*In December 2003, the Paediatric Cardiac Unit was relocated from Green Lane Hospital to Ward 23B at Starship Children's Hospital as part of the Auckland District Health Board's health delivery plan and the building of the new Auckland Hospital. Heart Children NZ's work continues on in its support to families in the same way as when the PCU was housed at Green Lane Hospital.
Mission
"To provide and facilitate the best support and care for children with heart conditions and their families within New Zealand".
Aims
The chief objective of the Society is to provide the parent and families of children with congenital heart conditions the appropriate and timely support they need. The Society aims to:
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reduce the suffering, stress and premature death of these children and the emotional strain on their families;
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reduce the financial burden and stress placed on families taking a child to Starship Childrens Hospital;
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encourage, develop and implement programmes for a child's rehabilitation following surgery;
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promote awareness and conduct and publish research about children with heart conditions.
It is also responsible for the publication and distribution of the handbook "Heart Children".
From the heart - stories and images
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Heart Children Values:
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Heart Children and their families First
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Education and Empowerment
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Passionate and Professional
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Respect with Compassion
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Integrity at all Times
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Committed to Success