FON #HeartHero Spotlight: Ayden Cazares
The Fontan Outcomes Network is a community of patients, family members, caregivers, clinicians, researchers, and supporters, dedicated to improving the quality of life and health outcomes for individuals with single ventricle circulation. Each month, we feature a member of the community who goes “above and beyond” in service of this mission as our #HeartHero.
Name: Ayden Cazares
Reason for Nomination
My nomination for Ayden is due to his strength. During the time he was newly diagnosed with his heart defects, he was also facing bullying while in kindergarten. Despite all the obstacles he has faced, Ayden has never stopped staying true to himself. He is an ambassador for the Be a Friend Project and supports other children being bullied. He also has a local Facebook group called Ayden’s Fulfilling Your Birthday Wish. Through this group, he has granted other kids small gifts on their birthdays to help bring a smile to their face.
About Ayden
Ayden is truly a HEART HERO. My take on what a hero is has changed through the years. We were led to believe that a hero looked like Superman, the Hulk, Batman, etc., but the truth is that a hero doesn’t always look that way. My hero is a few inches shy of 4 feet, not muscular at all, but boy is he powerful. His super powers are a million dollar smile, strong arms that give the best hugs, a contagious laugh and a heart of gold.
Ayden takes his title as a heart warrior very serious. Although, he’s only 9 years old, he makes it a point to educate others on what his heart conditions are and speaks about his journey to give other children facing this hope.
Want to nominate your #HeartHero? Whether it’s a nurse, a patient, a physician, family member, or other, we encourage you to nominate your #HeartHero for the spotlight here.