Turning Heartbreak Into Hope: Noelle Schnacky’s Mission to Transform Congenital Heart Defect Awareness

Every so often, a story comes along that reminds us of the power of resilience, faith, and purpose. These are the stories that show us what’s possible when someone chooses to turn pain into purpose, and heartbreak into hope. They inspire us to pause, reflect, and ask ourselves how we can use our own experiences—both the joyful and the difficult—to create meaningful impact in the world.

In today’s fast-paced culture, it’s easy to believe that making a difference requires years of experience, financial resources, or a position of influence. But time and again, changemakers prove that what truly matters is the courage to take the first step, the passion to keep going when it gets hard, and the faith to believe that your efforts will matter.

This is exactly what makes Noelle Schnacky’s story so remarkable.

At just 18 years old, Noelle Schnacky is proving that one mission fueled by heart can truly change the world. As Miss Florida’s Teen 2025 and the founder of Hope for Heart Kids, Noelle has already raised more than $150,000, written and donated over 1,000 children’s books, and partnered with hospitals and organizations to support families navigating congenital heart disease (CHD)—the most common birth defect in the U.S.

Inspired by her cousin Tyler’s memory, Noelle turned personal heartbreak into a national movement. In this episode of The She Believed She Could™ Podcast, Allison Walsh sits down with Noelle to explore her mission, her faith, and her remarkable journey of creating change from the heart.

For Noelle, this journey started with loss. After her cousin Tyler passed away from congenital heart disease, she felt a deep pull to do something that would keep his legacy alive. Instead of letting heartbreak define her, she chose to transform it into action.

What began as a simple idea blossomed into a full-fledged nonprofit—Hope for Heart Kids. At just 14 years old, she filed for 501(c)(3) status and began the work that would touch thousands of lives. Her courage to channel grief into service became the cornerstone of her mission.

While most high school students were focused on homework, sports, or part-time jobs, Noelle was building a nonprofit from the ground up. She shares how she began with small steps—like connecting at her local Chamber of Commerce—and how those early relationships eventually expanded into powerful partnerships with hospitals and national organizations.

Her story proves that you don’t need decades of experience to make an impact; what you need is passion, courage, and persistence. Noelle’s nonprofit grew as she learned to lean on her community, ask for support, and lead with authenticity.

One of Noelle’s most impactful contributions has been her children’s books, written specifically for families navigating the challenges of CHD. These books aren’t just educational—they’re filled with hope, comfort, and encouragement for children and parents alike.

Hearing that families read her books every night to help them cope with their child’s diagnosis has been one of the most rewarding parts of her journey. It’s proof that words can heal, inspire, and connect us in ways we may never fully realize.

Throughout her journey, Noelle has leaned on her faith as her guiding force. She shares how quiet moments of prayer and reflection prepared her for the opportunities and challenges ahead.

Her wisdom is a reminder that success isn’t just about outward achievements—it’s also about nurturing your inner life and trusting the path God places before you. Noelle credits her strength and clarity to her faith, reminding us that grounding ourselves spiritually can give us the resilience we need to keep moving forward.

From raising over $150,000 to growing a team of volunteers, Noelle has faced her share of obstacles. But instead of seeing critics or setbacks as roadblocks, she’s learned to view them as opportunities to grow—and even to minister to others.

Her advice for anyone chasing a dream is simple yet profound: “I had a dream, and I knew my passion and purpose were way greater than any excuse I could come up with.”

This mindset has fueled her success and inspired countless others to pursue their own calling, no matter their age or circumstance. Noelle is living proof that leadership is not about age or position—it’s about vision, heart, and the courage to keep showing up.

Noelle’s story is more than inspiring—it’s a call to action. Whether you’re an aspiring leader, a parent, or simply someone searching for purpose, her journey reminds us that every act of service, every word of encouragement, and every bold step can ripple into impact far greater than we imagine.

If a teenager can build a national nonprofit from a place of loss, imagine what’s possible for you when you follow your heart and commit to your calling.

🎧 Listen to the full episode of The She Believed She Could™ Podcast with Noelle Schnacky

✨ This episode is proudly sponsored by AdventHealth for Women and Be a Mindleader—two organizations committed to supporting whole-person wellness and empowering families everywhere.