May 2012

My husband Luke has recently had major heart surgery.  Four years ago we found out that he was born with a heart defect that required a valve replacement.  After being monitored closely since then, it was fast becoming apparent that time was running short and he needed the operation sooner rather than later. 

The operation was a complete success and he is now on the road to recovery.  However during the afternoon of Luke's operation I spent five hours in the Critical Care Unit at Papworth Hospital and it was one of the most humbling experiences I have ever had.  I watched eight heart operation patients be brought round after their surgeries by the most amazing team of nurses and doctors.  I left that room wanting to do something positive to help raise awareness of heart issues, which is the biggest killer in the UK.  I chose the British Heart Foundation because they focus on pioneering research, vital prevention activity and ensuring quality care and support for everyone living with heart conditions.

As 2013 is my 50th year I decided to complete an Overseas Challenge by trekking over 100km in five days in the Sahara Desert in March 2013.  Just to make it even more of a challenge I will be completing a sketchbook along the way, produce a photographic documentation of the journey and hold an exhibition at the end of 2013 of the work produced.

The trip will be completely self-funded and all monies raised during the next 12 months will go to The British Heart Foundation.

I will also be holding an auction of promises in early 2013 and will be organising various events throughout the year.

This year of fundraising is also in memory, and in celebration of Jack Stone-Wigg who would have been 10 years old this year.  He is never far from my thoughts.

I am hoping to raise more than my target of £5,000 as I want to add this to the Joe Herrington Memorial Fund.   Joe was a sporty 14 year old who studied at Chesterton Community College, Cambridge who collapsed in April 2011 and sadly died.  His death was an undiagnosed heart condition.  Since then Joe's parents have been raising funds for CRY - Cardiac Risk in the Young and has already funded two days of E.C.G. screenings at Chesterton.

Thank you for taking the time out to read this and for your support.

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