Heidi found The MISS Foundation in 2003, after the death of her third child, a son named Chaney. Born 3/3/03, Chaney had a serious congenital heart defect called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). Despite the best efforts of doctors and surgeons, Chaney died when he was just three days old.

Family and friends were supportive, but Heidi felt very much alone in her pain. She found herself searching for others who had survived the loss of a child, hoping that these people could help her survive it too.

When she happened upon the online MISS Forums, she found kindred spirits with whom she bonded instantly. In May of 2003, the newly grieving mother went to her first MISS Gathering in Phoenix. There, she found support and compassion, and friends who would stand beside her as she began the long journey of healing.

Heidi now administers a website ring for the families of children with HLHS. She and her family have participated in the AHA's Heart Walk to raise money for the Legacy for Life, an endowment dedicated to congenital heart defect research and treatment.

In the future, Heidi plans to begin holding annual National Children's Memorial Day services in her hometown, and perhaps one day form a local MISS support group in northeast Indiana.

heidi.combs@missfoundation.org