WHO WE ARE

The Brett Boyer Foundation.

The Brett Boyer Foundation was created in loving memory and in honor of our beloved daughter, Sadie Brett Boyer. Brett was diagnosed prenatally with Down syndrome and a congenital heart defect (CHD).

Through her seven inspiring months of life, Brett was a bright light for us and everyone who loved her. Our mission is to fund CHD research, support CHD families & providers, and to celebrate the Down syndrome community.

WHAT WE DO

  • CHD Awareness

    One in 100 babies is born with CHD. This is a well-known fact within the CHD community, but many are surprised to hear how common it is. This is not a rare disease. This is the most common birth defect. We have made it part of our mission to continue to spread awareness so that more people understand the need for research and better detection and treatment options.

    About CHD

  • CHD Research Funding

    Our interest in research comes from knowing that there could have been more options for Brett. We know that research for CHD is severely underfunded as compared to other childhood illnesses. It will take all of us working together to continue spreading awareness and making progress year after year for better outcomes.

    Funded Projects

  • Family Financial Support

    The amount of financial strain on a family with a lifelong diagnosis like CHD can be overwhelming and adds another layer of stress on an already tough situation. We are proud to say that we have never had to turn away a request for support.

    Family Support

  • Mental Health Support

    While the need for mental health support isn’t limited to families within the CHD community, we know that there is a huge gap in services available to patients and families. This journey is often one of the most stressful situations a family will ever experience. Having the support of someone who understands not only the medical complexities, but also the emotional challenges, is known to be invaluable to families.

    Mental Health Support

  • Down Syndrome Awareness and Celebration

    Ellen often says that one of her favorite things about Brett is the fact that she had Down syndrome. While receiving the diagnosis was shocking and scary, that extra chromosome was life changing for all those involved. It is our mission to spread awareness and celebrate all the capabilities of our friends in the Down syndrome community.

    About Down syndrome
SEE MORE

RESOURCES

We’re Here To Support You.

We know it can be overwhelming to receive a CHD or Down syndrome diagnosis. We’re here to support you in any way we can. Take a look at the resources below to get you started on your journey!

TESTIMONIAL

From the Heart.

“I just wanted to reach out and thank you for all that you’re doing. During the first week of February we found out that our baby may have AVSD. One night I was scrolling through stories and saw you posting about CHD awareness and the CHD community. This is all so new to us as we’ve never known anyone who’s gone through this with their children personally. Honestly, I think it was divine intervention because in the midst of the fear, you offered so much hope, peace, and understanding for us. We weren’t alone. With more scans and tests we now know that our sweet boy will be born with Down syndrome and AVSD. You have truly helped me have so much peace and I just wanted to thank you for being brave after what you’ve gone through to help all of the families out there!”
— Heart Mom, Bethany

BATTLE ON

Heart Warriors.

Imagine fighting a war that's invisible to those around you. As long as your shirt is on, your scars are covered. Most people haven't even heard of the battle you're fighting every day.

As we raise awareness of the CHD battle, we invite you to meet some of the warriors whose families we stand with. Battle on.