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Lt. Gov. Brian Calley and Julie Calley recognize Congenital Heart Defects Awareness Week

February 12, 2016

LANSING, Mich. – Lt. Gov. Brian Calley issued the following statement in observance of Congenital Heart Defects Awareness Week in Michigan. 

Karagan Calley: When I was born, I had a sick heart. My mommy and daddy were very worried.

Julie Calley: Learning that your child has a heart condition is life altering. Unfortunately, this is a reality for many parents, both across the country and within our state.

Lt. Gov. Brian Calley: Congenital heart defects are the most common form of birth defects. Each year, nearly 40,000 babies in the United States are born with a heart defect. 1,700 of them are born right here in Michigan.

Julie Calley: Our youngest daughter, Karagan was one of those babies. Today, she is a happy, healthy 5 year old, thanks to early detection, excellent care from dedicated medical professionals, and support and encouragement from people all across Michigan.

Karagan Calley: My doctors and nurses took good care of me and now I am better!

Lt. Gov. Calley: February 7th through the 14th is Congenital Heart Defects Awareness Week in Michigan. This week is an opportunity to raise awareness and offer support to other Michigan families dealing with a CHD.

Julie Calley: To learn more about early screening for congenital heart defects, or to share your story, visit michigan.gov/CCHD.

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