Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

I was born with heart defect as a baby which meant that as a child right through to an adult I have attended the Royal Victoria Hospital. I was aware as I got older I would need my aortic valve replaced.

Just months after I was married at 28 I had my first open heart surgery and had my aortic valve replaced with a tissue valve. This valve lasted 10 years and I was able to have my beautiful daughter Ella during this time. Unfortunately tissue valves only last 10 years so when I was 38 I had to get the tissue valve replaced to a mechanical valve in January last year. Due to scar tissue I had to have a smaller valve fitted than had been planned. I went into heart block after my surgery which meant the bottom of my heart wasn’t beating as it should. Which in turn meant I had to get fitted with a pacemaker.

It’s been a tough road back to health the last year but with support from family and friends I am getting there. I have to thank the RVH for everything they have done for me through both my surgeries. The cardiac rehabilitation programme in Downpatrick has also been so valuable to me.

A year on I’m doing so much better and am so thankful to be on the other side. However due to the smaller valve being fitted I do feel restricted to what I could do before and fatigue can be difficult.

I’ve decided I’d like to jog/walk a 5k the week before my 40th birthday. I’ve convinced some family and friends to come with me and support me on the day and get me round the park run.

I would appreciate any donation however small to support me in my fundraiser. We never know when we might need these services.

Thank you

Lynsey

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