Half a heart, full of determination: Cam discovers new possibilities through sport
For Hawke's Bay youngster Cam Bartle, 13, being able to take part in sport is something he never takes for granted.
Diagnosed during a routine 19-week scan with a complex heart condition, Cam was born with only half a heart, positioned on the opposite side of his chest. Since then, his life has been shaped by remarkable strength and resilience. He has undergone four open-heart surgeries, the first when he was just five days old, and spent years travelling to hospital appointments alongside his family.
“It’s been a very long, hard road for us all,” says his mum, Rachael. “The emotional and mental toll has been really tough, especially trying to live away from home at times and manage financially.”
Despite the challenges, Cam has always been determined to be involved and make the most of every opportunity.
Finding ways to be active
Because Cam takes blood-thinning medication and has undergone multiple surgeries, contact sport has not been an option. The risks associated with head injuries and the wires supporting his chest have meant his family has needed to approach physical activity carefully.
Still, Cam's love of sport and being part of a team has never disappeared.
“Cam has always been a go-getter,” Rachael says. “He’s limited physically and tires quickly, but we always encourage him to give things a go.”
Through Sense Rugby and opportunities available through Disability Sport and Recreation Hawke's Bay (DSRHB), Cam has been able to experience the joy of being active while learning new skills and building confidence in a safe and supportive environment.
Discovering new possibilities at the Halberg Games
Earlier this year, Cam travelled to Auckland with the DSRHB team to take part in the 2026 Halberg Games, New Zealand's largest sports festival for young people with physical disabilities.
For Cam, the experience was unforgettable.
“I had the most amazing time,” he says. “I got to try lots of different sports. My favourite was rock climbing with Dame Sophie Pascoe - she raced me to the top!”
Over two days, Cam embraced every opportunity, taking part in rock climbing, discus, cycling, basketball, running and even a relay with his dad.
“I felt really safe having a go at all these sports,” he says. “There were so many helpers and they all encouraged me. It was fun.”
For his family, seeing Cam participate so freely and alongside other talented young people with disabilities was incredibly powerful.
“Halberg Games have been such an incredible experience for him,” says Rachael. “He’s been able to compete in sports he never thought possible.”
More than sport
Living with low oxygen levels means everyday activities can be exhausting, and a heart transplant may one day be part of Cam's future. But for now, moments like these matter most.
Through sport, Cam has discovered something much bigger than competition - a sense of belonging.
“I feel like I can be part of some type of sport no matter my disability,” he says.
His mum agrees.
“Having only half a heart can be very limiting on a daily basis, but the two days of Halberg Games gave my son a wonderful experience.”
Looking to the future
Cam's dreams are as big as ever. One day, he would love to fly a plane, but he also has another goal close to his heart.
“I’d love to be a teacher,” he says.
For a young man who has already overcome so much, sport has opened the door to confidence, connection and endless possibilities.
This story was supplied by the Halberg Foundation and adapted for the DSRHB community.