Physical and mental (heart) health

Heart Foundation Future Leader Fellow Dr. Nadine Kasparian has big ambitions. She wants to transform the mental health outcomes for children and young adults living with congenital heart disease (CHD). 

Currently, Dr. Kasparian’s psychological CHD research program is the first of its kind. And it’s through your donations that her unique and groundbreaking research is possible. 

She investigates how the experiences of young children living with CHD can influence their brain development, immune system and responses to stress. Her research has already uncovered a link between adults who live with CHD and poor mental health outcomes. 

This means Dr. Kasparian and her team can identify potential issues early and help children and their families with resources, programs and support. 

"The Heart Foundation’s Future Leader Fellowship provides an incredible opportunity for me to pursue new ways of tackling the challenges that affect children with heart disease,” Dr. Kasparian says. 

Of you, our wonderful donors, she adds, “They make our work possible, and for that we owe a debt of gratitude.”