MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The community came together to support those who've overcome it and are continuing their fight with congenital heart disease.

"Just keep swimming, just keep going," said Camberen Cross, a congenital heart disease survivor. "It does get greater later."

Those are the words that 28-year-old Cross says to remind herself she can get through any challenge, including overcoming her rare congenital heart defect.

Dozens of people walked alongside Camberen at Greenfield Park for the "Walk for 1 in 100" supporting congenital heart disease patients.

Cross says support from those around her is what's helped her stay strong through several procedures.

Walk for 1 in 100 CBS 58

"With their strength and just staying by my side, it was kind of easy to get through over the years," said Cross. "It was ups and downs, but I mean it got better as I got older."

Congenital heart disease is a structural abnormality of the heart at birth, that the Adult Congenital Heart Association says impacts 1 in 100 babies born.

"I mean the support that the communities bringing is wonderful," said Dr. Scott Cohen, an adult congenital cardiologist. "Bringing awareness to this patient population and the adult congenital heart association means a lot to me."

Nearly $20,000 dollars were raised for the Adult Congenital Heart Association so far. Dr. Cohen says the funds will help with research and patient assistance as they continue their battle.

"This event is to bring awareness to a growing number of adults with congenital heart disease," said Dr. Cohen. "These are people who are born with congenital heart disease, and have survived into adulthood, and most of them have had many surgeries."

Each step of the way reminding them they are not alone in their fight.

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