About 10 years ago, Barbara had her first major episode of Atrial Fibrillation  (AF). She's one of the 1 million people in the UK who suffer from AF. She's had 4 stays in hospital as a result along with an ever-increasing frequency of debilitating palpitations.

I came across the Atrial Fibrillation Association (AFA) when searching for information prior to her having a procedure (Catheter Ablation) which can eliminate the problem electrical pathways within the heart which cause AF.

I found their publications incredibly helpful in getting my head around the benefits and problems associated with the operation. They were also really useful in reassuring my daughter about what was going to happen.

I believe the AFA is doing some excellent work in promoting research into AF and campaigning for a better understanding of the condition.

So I wanted to give something back. My friends and I are cycling 130km of the Canal du Midi from 17 May 2012 and I thought it an ideal opportunity to raise funds for the AFA.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.