Beth is a member of the Patient and Public Network at Heart Research UK.
I was born with congenital heart defects and was diagnosed soon after birth. My condition has undoubtedly shaped who I am, both physically and mentally, but I believe that it is possible to transcend that diagnosis and not be defined by it.
I had my first open-heart surgery in 1981 to close a septal defect (a hole in the heart) and repair my pulmonary valve. This was replaced with a bioprosthetic valve in 2005, and then again in 2017 following a diagnosis of endocarditis, which resulted in me spending many months in hospital.
Unfortunately, I had what is assumed to be an arrhythmia-related stroke in 2016, which cost me all usable sight in my left eye, something that often has more of a daily impact than my heart condition. My last significant procedure was in 2021, replacing the same valve again, this time via a catheter procedure through the groin. The difference in recovery time between that and my three open-heart surgeries was remarkable.
Given my medical history, people are often surprised by my lifelong passion for physical activity. With short pauses around various health setbacks, I have maintained my love of endurance exercise, competing in ultramarathons, Ironman triathlons, century bike rides, and multi-day hikes.
My heart condition has also informed my career path, leading me to become a personal trainer and rehabilitation specialist. It is a privilege to be able to watch people facing a variety of chronic health conditions thrive and live their best lives. Movement is, as they say, the best medicine.
In the 40 years between my surgeries, it has been fascinating to see how standard care for cardiac patients has evolved, driven by advances in medicine and technology. Now, as a member of the Heart Research UK Research Advisory Group (RAG), a subgroup of the Patient and Public Involvement Network, I feel that I have a valuable way to contribute to shaping the future of research into cardiac conditions and the vital work of the charity.
Your precious gift will help to save lives in your community and across the UK.
Sharing your journey of living with or knowing someone who has had a heart condition is invaluable. Your experience inspires, helps and supports people across the UK.
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Chris is a dedicated member of the Patient and Public Network. Driven by his personal experience of heart diseases, he hopes to help create a future where lesser lives are lost to heart diseases.
Gilbert is a dedicated member of the Patient and Public Network at Heart Research UK, helping build the future of innovation and patient care.
Peter is an active member of the Patient and Public Network, using his own experiences to help inspire the research that will support people in the years ahead.