Chula Vista heart survivor named national youth heart ambassador

At just seven years old, Bodhi Perez, a second grader at Salt Creek Elementary School in Chula Vista, already knows what it means to be brave. Born with congenital heart defects, including a hole in his heart and an abnormal vein, he underwent open-heart surgery when he was only three. Now, he’s turning that experience into something positive, using his story to inspire other children as a National Youth Heart Ambassador for the American Heart Association’s 2025-26 school year.

Bodhi was one of several students nationwide selected to represent the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge programs. Youth ambassadors are chosen because they’ve faced heart disease or stroke personally, through someone they love, or because they’re passionate about spreading awareness.

“I felt so excited and proud,” Bodhi said when he found out he’d been chosen. “It made me really happy to know I get to help other kids like me.”

Bodhi doesn’t remember everything from his early surgery, but what he does remember is filled with comfort and gratitude.

“My mom and dad were with me, and the doctors and nurses took good care of me,” he said. “It was scary, but I was really brave. A lot of people prayed for me, and my surgeon helped me feel safe.”

He still carries a reminder of that experience. “Now I have a scar on my chest, and I’m proud of it because it shows I’m a heart hero,” he said.

Today, Bodhi is an active and energetic second grader who loves karate, gymnastics, and basketball. “I also drink lots of water, eat healthy food, and take my vitamin every morning,” he said.

He even turns fitness into fun with “dance parties” at home with his younger brother.

When asked which he likes more—karate or dance—Bodhi said, “I like both, but maybe karate a little more because it makes me feel strong and confident. But dance is really fun too, especially when I do it with my brother.”

For Bodhi, being active isn’t just about exercise. “It makes me feel happy and gives me lots of energy,” he said. “When I eat healthy foods and get good sleep, I feel strong and ready to play. When I don’t sleep enough, I get cranky. But when I do, I feel awesome.”

He also likes to encourage his friends to stay active: “I tell them I have a special heart and that’s why I like to take care of it,” he said.

“When we play together during recess, I know it is fun and also good for us.”

As part of his ambassador role, Bodhi will share his story and help raise awareness about heart health, stroke prevention, and lifesaving skills like Hands-Only CPR.

“You never know when someone might need help,” he said. “If kids learn CPR, they could save someone’s life.”

For Bodhi being a leader, he added, means “setting a good example.”

“By sharing my story as an American Heart Association Youth Ambassador, I hope other kids will be inspired to give back and spread the word about doing good,” he said.

Bodhi’s mom, Dana, said the family couldn’t be prouder.

“At just seven years old, he’s embracing his special heart and sharing his story to inspire other kids and families,” she said. “He’s a true example that even the youngest voices can make a big difference.”

Bodhi said his family has always been his biggest supporters and, “They cheer me on, take me to my heart doctor checkups, and remind me how brave I am,” he said. “They make me feel safe and loved.”

He also mentioned relatives and friends in Los Angeles, San Diego, and the Philippines who continue to pray for his health.

As for what he hopes to do this school year, Bodhi said, “I want to raise awareness, help kids learn about their hearts, and inspire more people to get involved and give.”

And his advice to other children going through a heart condition? “Be brave, trust your doctors, and know that it’s okay to be scared,” he said. “You’re stronger than you think, and things will get better.”