In 2003, I was diagnosed with a heart condition, which we now know was Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy. From that moment on, my life became a rollercoaster, eventually leading to me receiving a life saving heart transplant at Royal Papworth Hospital in May 2023.

The last year before my transplant was the hardest. I struggled with even the most basic everyday tasks like cooking, cleaning or simply walking. I could barely manage 20 steps without becoming breathless and having to stop. Most days I was confined to my sofa. Despite countless medications and treatments, my condition continued to deteriorate, and I was placed on the heart transplant list in April 2023. I was incredibly lucky to receive my new heart just one month later, in May.

I'll never forget the first time I walked after my transplant without feeling dizzy or breathless. It was an overwhelming feeling, and for the first time in years I felt like I had my life back.

In September 2024, I joined a gym and started working with my PT to rebuild my strength. At 53, I was starting from scratch. I began with walking and strength training, then progressed to running. It's given me confidence I never thought I'd have.

This summer I'll be competing as part of the Royal Papworth Team at the 2026 British Transplant Games, celebrating not only what transplant recipients can achieve but also the incredible gift of organ donation and what can be achieved post heart transplant.

Royal Papworth Charity exists to support the groundbreaking work of Royal Papworth Hospital which helps make it possible for transplant patients like me to take part in this amazing event. If you're able to support me with a donation, no matter how big or small, I'd be incredibly grateful. Every donation helps patients continue their recovery, celebrate how far they've come, and honour the extraordinary generosity of the donors and families who made it all possible.

Thanks for your support.