The Heart PFAC is focused on improving the patient and family experience at the Heart Center and Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU). The group is composed of Phoenix Children’s staff as well as patient and family advisors who meet regularly. Adult patients, parents and caregivers serve a two-year term and work together with staff to create measured goals for each year. The Heart PFAC provides vital guidance and experience to help improve care across the system for patients and families.

Recent Accomplishments

  • Provided feedback on the new CVICU wing to improve comfortability and privacy in rooms
  • Created a resource to support families in the areas of well-being and self-care during hospital stays
  • Partnered with Marketing and Communications on how families receive Heart Center updates
Karlyn Tejada Family Picture

“I knew I wanted to give back”: Karlyn Tejada – Former Heart PFAC Chair

“After our unborn daughter’s gut-wrenching diagnosis, we quickly found relief and hope in our team at Phoenix Children's. Before birth, our daughter was diagnosed with a severe heart defect that completely changed the world as we knew it. We have trusted the amazing care at Phoenix Children’s through two heart surgeries on our then-infant daughter, Sula. Those days were scary and harder than words can describe. But, every step of the way, our team at Phoenix Children’s cared for our daughter like she was their own.

Now that we're on the other side of her surgeries and hospital stays, Sula is doing well, and I knew I wanted to give back. I was thrilled to find out about the Patient Family Advisory Council (PFAC) and the opportunity to collaborate with the heart community to make it ever stronger.”

Patient Resources

Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit (CVICU) - People Who Can Help guide