Several weeks ago, a friend, Tony, unfortunately had a heart attack and although he is thankfully on the road to recovery, he is no longer able to climb Kilimanjaro. I am going in his place, and after discussing it with him and his wife, we felt it fitting to raise money for Royal Papworth Hospital, as they did so much for my Mother and are the UK’s centre for heart and lung care.

Mum sadly, however, peacefully passed away on the Wednesday 10 April 2013 at Papworth Hospital. She had suffered with PAH (Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension) for around 24 years. Always smiling and thinking of others, she stayed positive strong against all the odds.

PAH can affect anyone at any age, but women in their 30's and 40's are particularly at risk. PAH significantly impacts on virtually every aspect of life, with many finding it difficult to shop, work, socialise or go on holiday. A patient with a severe form would have 2 to 3 years at best without treatment. 

Royal Papworth Hospital’s always ensures that it puts patients and their families at the heart of everything it does. The Charity is committed to supporting patients and their carers and seeks to enhance the support it provides to the Hospital. Charitable funds have enabled the Hospital to provide care beyond that of NHS funding alone, enhancing the Hospital’s status as the UK’s leading provider of specialist cardiothoracic care and the country’s main heart and lung transplant centre.