The resolution designates February 12th of each year as "Carly Day" in New Jersey to raise awareness about congenital heart defects (CHDs) and their impact on individuals living with these conditions. It highlights the story of Carly Fetzer, a Bayville resident who was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and underwent three surgeries in her early years. Despite her health challenges, Carly lived for 18 years, leaving a lasting impression on her community and family. In her memory, the Carly Fetzer Queen of Hearts Foundation was established to support families at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and fund research on CHDs.
By recognizing February 12th as Carly Day, the resolution aims to remind New Jerseyans of the prevalence of congenital heart defects, which affect 9 out of every 1,000 newborns in the U.S. The initiative aligns with the national observance of Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week, which takes place from February 7th to February 14th. The resolution requests the Governor to issue an annual proclamation to commemorate this day, thereby fostering greater awareness and understanding of congenital heart defects in the state.