The Go Red For Women Survivor Class 2018: Meet Colleen Marble

Colleen Marble is the second member we would like to feature from this year's "Go Red For Women Survivor Class 2018." Here's her story...

Colleen Marble is a 47-year survivor of open heart surgery. She was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect and had to have surgery at just 3-years-old. Now, Colleen is okay, and her heart is okay ( it still has a hole in it that has never closed, and she does still have other health conditions, but all in all, her heart is good). She says she continues to listen to her body, and of course, to her cardiologist.

Colleen is seen holding a stuffed animal with signatures on it. She explains the importance of the animal and what all the names on it are. You can hear about it in the video (above).

After recently celebrating her 50th birthday, Colleen has taken time to reflect, and look back at all she has been through. She says she looks at her own kids (three boys), and realizes just how lucky she is.

In the video (at the top of this page), Colleen says the research through the American Heart Association means so much to her. Because of this research she's alive and can be there for her children.

Colleen has met other members and other people involved with the "Go Red For Women" Campaign. After hearing others share their stories, it made Colleen want to share her story. She knew how inspiring and helpful it can be to hear these survivor stories and she wanted to do the same for others.

In the video, Colleen also talks about a friend of hers, whose daughter was diagnosed with "ventricular septal defect," at just 12-hours-old. Colleen was diagnosed with the same thing and knew she could share her story with her friend. She realized that by sharing her story, she was able to give her friend hope - Colleen came out from surgery and has lived a normal life, this is possible for her friend's daughter, as well.

Colleen tells us what being a part of the Go Red For Women Survivor Class 2018 means to her...

...I can provide hope for parents of children with congenital heart defects.

We're so glad that Colleen Marble and the Go Red For Women campaign came together, so she could share her story with others and give other parents hope. In the next few weeks, we'll be featuring each member of the "2018 Go Red For Women Survivor Class" and sharing their heart stories. We'll also be keeping you updated on 'Go Red For Women' events coming up in the community, including the Go Red For Women Luncheon at Hart's Hill Inn in May. You can get more details on the luncheon at the link below:

BONUS VIDEO: