Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Thesis

Mentor

Dr. Melissa McNeilly

Abstract

Throughout history, birth defects have left a mark on patients and families across the world. From an infant's first few breaths to an elderly person's last breath, congenital heart birth defects play a major role in that person's life. There are many different types of birth defects that effect the heart. Each defect is unique and has different outcomes on the body. Some congenital heart diseases have multiple defects causing more than one complication. The treatment options for many of the common congenital heart birth defects have come a long way throughout decades of research. By diving into what heart birth defects are, the history of treating these birth defects, current interventions, and understanding how these defects affect a person throughout their entire lifespan will provide a better knowledge of what a person and their family will experience.

Comments

Thank you to my family for their encouragement and for always believing in me. Thank you to my thesis advisor Dr. Melissa McNeilly for your guidance and support. Thank you to Gardner-Webb University for allowing me the opportunity to expand my knowledge and strengthen my faith during my undergraduate studies. Thank you to my Father in Heaven for blessing me. 

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