Diaries of a Heart Warrior

Amy
  • 5.0 (22)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

I'm Amy Erhart, the host of Diaries of a Heart Warrior; born with a Congenital Heart Defect (Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome-HLHS).  I'm creating this podcast to bring you stories told by individuals living with a Congenital Heart Defect.  Episodes will also include the parent(s) point of view on how it felt to receive the diagnosis of their child; what they wish they knew and what life looks like now.  Let's take a journey and explore the lives of Heart Warriors as the stories are told from their perspective.  

  1. 1H AGO

    The Struggle and the Strength: CHD and Staying Active

    Growing up with CHD, there was no manual on what we could or couldn’t do—it was often trial by fire. Our parents did the best they could with the information they had, but as we step into adulthood, it’s on us to figure out how to start—or keep up—an active lifestyle. For some, that comes naturally; for others, it’s a lifelong struggle. What we all share, though, is an understanding of how important movement is for our health and well-being. Join us today as we talk openly about our health journeys and the role physical activity plays in our lives. If you would like to be on the show please reach out!  Facebook:  Amy Erhart Cunningham Facebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart Warrior Instagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

    55 min

  2. OCT 27

    Aiden Renda's Story- From CHD to Heart Transplant

    Today I’m joined by Aiden, who shares his powerful CHD and transplant journey. His path toward transplant began when he was just 16, and at 18, he received his new heart. Now, nine years later, Aiden reflects on the reality that while his heart is strong, his body is facing new challenges. Join us as he opens up about his experiences, what he’s learning along the way, and how he continues moving forward. If you would like to be on the show please reach out!  Facebook:  Amy Erhart Cunningham Facebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart Warrior Instagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

    52 min

  3. OCT 13

    Aaron Knutson is back! Talking about his disability journey

    Aaron is back! Today, he opens up about his disability journey—what led him to the decision to step away from his job and begin the Social Security process. He shares the barriers he faced along the way and highlights the key things he believes others should consider when navigating this path. After a long road, he finally receives that official stamp of approval. If you would like to be on the show please reach out!  Facebook:  Amy Erhart Cunningham Facebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart Warrior Instagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

    28 min

  4. SEP 29

    Bekah Chovanec's Story- HRHS/ Pulmonary Atresia

    Today, Bekah opens up about her journey of finding her footing as an adult with CHD. Learning to advocate for ourselves isn’t always easy—it takes time, growth, and confidence. For Bekah, certain life experiences have sparked a stronger drive to speak up for her needs. Now, she’s drawing from those moments and the lessons they’ve taught her to make positive changes in both her health and the way she communicates with her care team. If you would like to be on the show please reach out!  Facebook:  Amy Erhart Cunningham Facebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart Warrior Instagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

    1h 8m

  5. SEP 15

    Melanie Letzer's Story- Heart mom of 2 children with CHD

    To say Melanie’s story is unique would be an understatement. While having one child with CHD is already rare—about 1 in 100 births—Melanie is navigating life with two children living with congenital heart disease. The challenges are real, but she’s meeting them head-on with strength and grace. For Melanie, the key has been finding balance—giving her oldest the space to live his life with guidance, while encouraging both of her children to make their own choices and discover who they are within the context of CHD. Her priority has always been to raise confident, self-aware kids who feel empowered to take ownership of their journeys. If you would like to be on the show please reach out!  Facebook:  Amy Erhart Cunningham Facebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart Warrior Instagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

    51 min

  6. SEP 1

    Thirza de Kok's Story- HRHS

    Today, Thirza shares her powerful story of living with CHD. Despite the challenges she’s faced, it’s clear she’s thriving. I especially love how she reflects on the impact of being part of a CHD group in her younger years—how those connections turned into lasting relationships. Inspired by that experience, she’s now continuing the mission for adults. Tune in to hear her incredible journey. Below is her Website and Facebook page for her adult group.  Go check it out! https://aangeborenhartafwijking.nl/hartcor/ https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BTqvUTUA1/ If you would like to be on the show please reach out!  Facebook:  Amy Erhart Cunningham Facebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart Warrior Instagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

    52 min

  7. AUG 18

    Katherine Madigan's Story- Tricuspid Atresia

    Katherine was born in 1982, and from the very beginning, her parents were filled with hope for her future. She underwent her first surgery within months of birth and received the Fontan procedure at age nine. From that point through much of her adult life, her health remained stable. However, in her 30s, she began experiencing arrhythmias—an unexpected turn that significantly altered the course of her life. Join me as Katherine opens up about her journey, sharing the emotional impact and grieving process that has come with navigating these changes in her adult years. If you would like to be on the show please reach out!  Facebook:  Amy Erhart Cunningham Facebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart Warrior Instagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

    50 min

  8. AUG 4

    Tessa Go's Story- HRHS/WPW

    Today, Tessa shares her journey through pregnancy, life as a military spouse, and the transition of care in managing her CHD. She reflects on her experiences with four pregnancies, navigating the challenges of frequent relocations as part of a military family. Additionally, she opens up about her transition from pediatric to adult cardiology, emphasizing the importance of understanding your CHD early to prepare for independent adulthood. If you would like to be on the show please reach out!  Facebook:  Amy Erhart Cunningham Facebook Page:  Diaries of a Heart Warrior Instagram:  amyerhart_hlhs

    49 min
See All (50)

5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

I'm Amy Erhart, the host of Diaries of a Heart Warrior; born with a Congenital Heart Defect (Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome-HLHS).  I'm creating this podcast to bring you stories told by individuals living with a Congenital Heart Defect.  Episodes will also include the parent(s) point of view on how it felt to receive the diagnosis of their child; what they wish they knew and what life looks like now.  Let's take a journey and explore the lives of Heart Warriors as the stories are told from their perspective.  

Information

  • Creator
    Amy
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    50
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Diaries of a Heart Warrior
  • Show Website
    Diaries of a Heart Warrior

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