I am 16 and had heart surgery just three years ago. Though my scar is fading, it's still visible. My solution to what you're facing is to just welcome any questions . At first I didn't want anyone to know about my heart surgery, so I hid my scar. Then I got involved with a group called It's My Heart [www.itsmyheart.org] and realized that I am who I am because of my heart defect. I know that I wouldn't have the purpose and drive [I want to become a pediatric cardiologist] that I do had I been born with a perfect heart. I welcome any questions and use each as an opportunity to raise awareness for other kids with CHD. I think we [heart teens] are a minority in the heart community [the ones I've encountered]. There are lots of little kids with CHD [trust me - I adore them] and older people too - but most older people who've had OHS don't have a congenital malformation. A lot of mothers and fathers of CHD babies look up to us [as older kids] and see that their children can live a normal life after many CHD ups and downs. It's kind of cool. :-) Anyway - back on track. All of my friends [and a lot of kids at school too - someone in Journalism did an article about me and my surgery] know I've had heart surgery and still have some heart issues three years down the road, and it's okay. They accept me for who I am and support me anytime I go to a heart walk or It's My Heart event/meeting. There's actually probably an It's My Heart chapter in your area if you want to get involved. It's TONS of fun. Plus you get to meet awesome people! If none of that seems interesting to you - you can use Mederma to make your scar fade. Oh, and remember to always put sunscreen on it - scar tissue has no pigment so it sunburns really easily - I know that all too well! Haha. If you have any other questions - or want to talk anytime - just email me [woohoo_its_cailey@yahoo.com]. :-) Have a great week!