As many will know I successfully underwent open heart surgery at the end of October 2025 , after very suddenly and unexpectedly being diagnosed with a severely dilated aorta and leaking aortic valve. I was fortunate this was detected when it was and from finding out to having surgery took just 7 days.

I will forever be thankful for the research that is carried out by BHF and the care I received from our amazing NHS.

Now on the road to recovery, I started cardiac rehabilitation last week at The Royal Shrewsbury hospital and I’ll attend for the next 6 weeks to use their rehabilitation gym. Whilst at home I need to strive for brisk walks daily. With that in mind... I am committing to walking 50 miles in February World Heart Month and with your help I’d like to raise some funds for BHF to continue their life-saving research.