At two weeks old, my friend Jim Lynskey contracted viral meningitis which left him with an enlarged and weakened heart - a condition called dilated cardiomyopathy.

After battling pneumonia at the age of 19, Jim's heart had reached chronic failure and he was fitted with a Left Ventricle Assisted Device (LVAD) - essentially a battery-powered pump that forced the blood around his body as his heart was no longer strong enough to do so.

Now living his new life on batteries and waiting on the transplant list for a donor heart, Jim's incredible zest for life flourished as he started Save9Lives - a campaign that supported the NHS with encouraging the discussion around organ donation - and also partnered with the British Heart Foundation.

After four years of campaigning tirelessly alongside amazing organisations with raising awareness for organ donations, Jim sadly passed away at the age of 23 years old.

A loving son, beautiful friend and the kindest person I have ever known, Jim's memory lives on in those who knew and loved him as the Save9Lives campaign continues.

In March 2020, I will be running the Big Vitality Half Marathon in London in Jim's name for the British Heart Foundation, raising money for the incredible charity that gave so much support to his campaign.

In September 2019, Jim's family were invited to see Jim receive an honorary tribute at the BHF Heart Hero Awards, so I hope I can repay just a small amount of their kindness by helping them beat heartbreak forever.

Thank you xxx