DOCF, in collaboration with Dr. Oscar Benavidez, launched a new support program for families preparing their young children for heart surgery. Led by Dr. Katia Canenguez and Jessica Nigrelli—a mom of two kids with congenital heart defects—the program creates a safe, supportive space for parents during what can be an incredibly stressful time.
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Blending professional guidance with real-life experience, the group meets regularly to talk through things like:
How to prepare your child for surgery
Coping strategies for parents and kids
Helping kids express and manage emotions
Caring for yourself as a parent or caregiver
Supporting siblings, too
DOCF is excited to apply insights from this program to raise the standard of care for families in the Dominican Republic.
