San Antonio Congenital Heart Walk

This year, I'm walking with extra purpose as The Children's Heart Foundation celebrates 30 incredible years of funding research that saves lives and changes futures. My commitment to making a difference has led me to participate in the Congenital Heart Walk, an event that carries immense significance for me—especially knowing that for three decades, CHF has been the leading force behind the treatments and surgical advances that help children with congenital heart defects thrive.

It's not just a walk; it's a stride toward the next 30 years of hope. This endeavor is all about supporting The Children's Heart Foundation's crucial mission—advancing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of congenital heart defects through groundbreaking research that improves survival rates, reduces complications, and helps Heart Warriors celebrate more birthdays than ever before.

Greetings and thank you for visiting our team page! Please take a moment to read the story of our Heart Angel for whom we walk to honor his life and legacy.

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On April 28, 2021, a special baby boy was born to Mom, Marissa, and Dad, Nathan. His name is Ezra Gael Tamez. Ezra was born with a genetic condition which caused several congenital heart defects (CHDs), chief among them was Hypoplasia of the Left Ventricle or Hypolastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS). This means that the left side of his heart remained underdeveloped. Throughout his 16 months of life, Ezra underwent 3 open-heart surgeries to remedy this and/or related complications, even celebrating his first birthday in Room 904 of the Pediatric Cardiac Care Unit. Progress waxed and waned, further complicated by his genetic condition.

In June of 2022, to the utmost devastation of his family and friends, Ezra was diagnosed with hepatoblastoma, a rare pediatric liver cancer. We were beyond crushed to learn that, although this is a quite treatable cancer, virtually no treatment options existed for sweet Ezra because of his irreversible heart condition; And, in September of 2022, he was called home.

Although he spent most of his days in the hospital, Ezra (affectionately known to those who love him as Ezra "Bean") was able to spend 5 wonderful months at home with Mom and Dad. In and outside of the hospital, he was a light to all who had the privilege to know him. In spite of his illness, he lived in the moment, finding joy and love all around him. Every day, he inspired others to do the same. This is his legacy. While we miss his physical presence with every breath we take, he lives on in the hearts of those he has touched with this philosophy. He is Ezra Everlasting.

By walking, we not only honor his memory and legacy, but his battle so bravely fought. May it be a calling to advance research into CHDs and ultimately find a cure; honor the battles of all heart warriors; and, find gratitude for life, especially the little things, in each waking moment.

For Ezra Bean!