On February 14, known as International Congenital Heart Disease Day, Fundación LiLo Mexico, led by Laura Patricia Mex García, and Hospital Star Médica Infantil Privado, directed by Lucila del Carmen Sánchez Ortiz, celebrated a significant milestone by reaching the 100th patient treated under the "Manos al Corazón" program. This initiative finances surgeries for children suffering from cardiac malformations. While the milestone is noteworthy, the context tells a more urgent story: each year in Mexico, between 18,000 and 20,000 children are born with some form of congenital heart disease, and one in four will require surgical intervention within their first year of life to survive.

Congenital heart diseases remain a leading cause of mortality among children under five, highlighting a dire public health challenge beyond merely clinical care. Timely diagnosis and effective coverage are critical in addressing this issue, as many families may struggle with the financial burden associated with necessary medical interventions. The collaboration between philanthropic entities and healthcare providers demonstrates an innovative response to fill systemic gaps in healthcare access and delivery for vulnerable pediatric populations.

As such, the work of Fundación LiLo Mexico is not only lifesaving but aims to raise awareness about the pressing need for improved healthcare infrastructure in the country. By shining a light on congenital heart diseases and mobilizing resources, these organizations contribute to a broader conversation about child health and the systemic changes needed to prevent such conditions from becoming a fatal burden on young lives.