teen football and heart disease

[grob3]

I have a nephew, with a congenital heart condition, whose dream it is to play high school football.  He has played other sports before like soccer, baseball, and rollerblade hockey.  Those have minimal contact.  However, now he wants to move into this new arena and the doctor is worried about his being hit or even the full gear workout, including weight training.  His parents are conflicted.  He needs to hear from others like him who have gone through this type of thing as he is stubborn about playing.  Does anyone have any advice to share here or know of any support groups available online??  All help would be greatly appreciated.  Sincerely, Rob, his uncle  

[grob3]

Thank you for this insight.  He has had it surgically corrected twice as a kid.  His cardio doc now is concerned about the training involved.  So while the physical was good, there is doubt...

[CCFHeartMD11]

It would depend on the heart condition and whether it has ever been surgically corrected. If he isn't already, he should see a cardiologist who specializes in congenital heart disease. My bet is that he will be allowed to play, assuming he checks out okay on physical exam and depending on what his echocardiogram shows. But it is hard to say without knowing his exact condition and prior treatment. Make an appointment with a specialist to get more specific advice.