Welcome to My Heartfelt Journey: A Story of Strength, Survival, and Advocacy

Hi, I’m Victoria Rose Rodriguez and I’m so excited to welcome you to my blog!

For as long as I can remember, my heart has been at the center of my story—literally and figuratively. I was born with two congenital heart defects that went undiagnosed for six years. Doctors initially believed I had chronic asthma, so I spent my early childhood relying on a breathing machine. But at six years old, everything changed. My true condition was discovered, and I underwent open-heart surgery that not only saved my life but shaped my purpose.

That experience made me who I am today: a heart disease survivor, an advocate, a mother, and now, a storyteller.

For more than two decades, I’ve been raising awareness about heart health, speaking at events, and fundraising for life-saving research with the American Heart Association. Most recently, I became a national ambassador for their Go Red for Women Class of 2025, helping to empower women with knowledge about heart disease—the No. 1 killer of women worldwide.

But advocacy is just one part of my journey. I’m also a wife to the love of my life and a mom to two beautiful daughters, one of whom was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect in utero. Miraculously, her heart healed on its own by her first birthday. That experience deepened my commitment to heart health awareness and inspired me to use my voice in an even bigger way.

This blog is a space where I’ll share my personal journey, heart health tips, insights from my advocacy work, and my mission to help others—especially women and children—feel strong, empowered, and proud of their stories. I also hope to inspire parents navigating their child’s heart diagnosis and provide encouragement to anyone facing their own health challenges.

I believe our scars—both visible and invisible—are reminders of our strength. They tell a story of resilience, hope, and survival. Through this blog, I want to create a community where we celebrate those stories together.

Thank you for being here. I can’t wait to share this journey with you!

With heart,

Victoria Rose Rodriguez