Like many 9-year-olds, playing baseball, swimming and skiing are just a few of Aedan Conway’s favorite things to do.

What you don’t see on the outside is that Aedan has a congenital heart defect and has already had three open-heart surgeries.

“We need to concentrate on him and making his life the best it can be. And we let him do all the things he wants to do,” says Tim Conway, Aedan’s father.

Despite his health issues, Aedan leads an active lifestyle. He’s also been volunteering with the American Heart Association since he was a toddler.

“Since the day he was born, he’s rocked it; he’s never let it hold him back,” says Jennifer Corcoran-Conway, Aedan’s mother.

Aedan has raised more than $20,000 for the AHA. His Capital Region Heart Walk team – Aedan’s Ventricular Trio – is always one of the top fundraising teams. He has a simple reason for loving his volunteering.

“Help other kids with special hearts,” Aedan said.

According to the CDC, a congenital heart defect is the most common type of birth defect in the United States. Aedan’s mom says he’s an inspiration to other kids and is helping other families navigate similar struggles they may be facing.

“Having other kids and other families who are going through this journey after us see his strength and see his courage has been … really helpful for them to know it’s not as awful and scary, as we thought it was when we started,” Corcoran-Conway said.

Just like many kids his age, Aedan has big plans for when he grows up.

“[I want to be] a chef, because I like to cook,” he said.