HeartKids Australia - Young People’s Website
Share Your Story - Guidelines and Consent Form
Background
HeartKids has launched an online resource for young people aged 13-22 with childhood heart disease. The website includes a
place for young people to connect with a network of peers and learn from shared experiences using stories, blog posts and forum
discussions.
We would like all young people with childhood heart disease to have the opportunity to share their unique story, and help inspire
other young people living with a heart defect. Thank you for considering sharing your story.
When you submit your story you need to provide a signed consent form “Privacy & Copyright Consent”. If you are 16 years of age or
over, we need your written consent. If you are under 16 years of age, HeartKids Australia requires the written consent of your
parent, guardian or legally authorised person. You need to send the signed consent form to us – we cannot publish your story
without it.
You can do this in three ways:
• Take a photo of it and email it to [email protected]
• Scan it and email it to [email protected]
• Post it to: PO Box 149 CROWS NEST, NSW 1585.
How to Write Your Story
Writing your story is simple - here are a few tips to help you share your story with other young people who are living with a heart
defect.
Get Started
Start by introducing yourself. Use your first name only.
Tell us a bit about you – how old you are, where you live, whether you are at school, uni or work etc.
What is your heart condition? Do you have any other conditions?
Be honest and be yourself!
Make it Personal
Describe your own journey as a heart kid:
- when was your heart condition diagnosed
- how did you and your family/friends feel
- how has your heart condition affected you, your family and friends
- how do you manage at school
- what is your favourite thing to do, or the best thing you have ever done
- have you ever attended Teen Camp – did you enjoy it
- what are your goals and dreams for the future?
Remember, a story that explains how you (and your loved ones) are affected and how you are managing will be a lot more
engaging and inspirational than a story that simply states the facts.
Include Details
Use lots of describing words and anecdotes - little details will help people connect with your story.
For example, “I have had three open heart surgeries.” is not nearly as engaging as “My first open heart surgery was when I was
three days old and I don't remember a thing.”
Watch the Length!
We want people to read your story, but if it's too long they might lose interest. Somewhere between 1-2 pages is ideal, about
400-800 words.
PS You might like to have someone read your story before you send it to us!
ABN: 72 652 162 54 ARBN: 158 836 287
Page 1 of 1