Founded in 2002, Stronghearts celebrates the lives of children struggling with Congenital Heart Defects. We support families caring for these children. This support may include a wide range of activities such as donations for research, education, or financial support for families. Stronghearts also seeks to honor and remember the short and powerful life of Seamus Duffy, a child born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome.

Mission
Stronghearts celebrates the lives of children struggling with Congenital Heart Defects. We support families caring for these children. This support may include a wide range of activities such as donations for research, education, or financial support for families. Many families need to travel for the care that their children require. This can cause financial hardship and separation from networks of support. We especially want to support families facing the challenge of the ups and downs of hospital stays. Finally, Stronghearts seeks to honor and remember the short and powerful life of Seamus Duffy, a child born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome.

History of Stronghearts
The parents of Seamus, a child born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), conceived of Stronghearts after his death. They experienced first hand the challenges families face as they care for children born with Congenital Heart Defects (CHD’s). Caring for a child with a CHD can mean moving from home, separation from family members, financial strain, along with the daily ups and downs of caring for a sick child.

During Seamus’ life, his parents and family experienced a tremendous amount of love and support. They had a place to stay in Boston and friends and family were able to visit…sometimes with good meals! There was a powerful online community of support. Yet, there were many parents who were alone at the hospital, or who were from far away states and countries. Some children required lengthy stays resulting in significant financial pressure. Caring for a child with a CHD requires such “strong hearts”. We want to be a part of supporting these families.

Stronghearts Directors and Officers:
Brian Duffy             President
Sue Duffy               Vice President and Treasurer
Kristin McKinlay      Secretary

Stronghearts, 594 Shore Rd., Perry,  ME 04667