The Adult Congenital Heart Association (ACHA) — whose mission is to empower the congenital heart disease (CHD) community by advancing access to resources and specialized care that improve patient-centered outcomes — has appointed Mary Jane Eazer to its Board of Directors. 

Diagnosed in one in 100 births, CHD is the most common birth defect and a chronic illness that includes a range of simple, moderate, and complex heart defects that need to be monitored throughout a patient’s life. ACHA serves and supports nearly two million adults with congenital heart disease — along with their families and the medical community — with education, outreach, advocacy, and research.  

Eazer spent more than 25 years as a sales and marketing leader in the medical device industry, most recently as U.S. Director for Congenital Therapies at Medtronic.

“Throughout my career, I saw firsthand the challenges of keeping CHD patients in specialized care as they get older,” Eazer said. “It is critically important to raise awareness among this population and bring them back to care, a mission I will carry forward in my role with ACHA.”

“Mary Jane’s professional experience brings a unique perspective to our board, as she has a deep understanding of the complexities around getting patients on, or back on, a specialized care pathway,” said ACHA President and CEO Mark Roeder. “Having engaged with cardiologists and other medical professionals in the field, she understands the need for a hyperlocal and national approach to educating patients, so they get the care they need and deserve.”

As a member of the Board of Directors, Eazer joins a dedicated group of professionals who oversee the organization’s leadership and strategies in an effort to advance ACHA’s mission and advocate for people living with CHD. 

“ACHA has a direct, positive impact on people’s lives, including my niece who is an adult living with congenital heart disease,” Eazer said, “so my commitment to this cause is very personal. I look forward to putting my knowledge and experience to work.”

Learn more about the important work of the Adult Congenital Heart Association.