Nigel Wheeldon is Consultant Cardiologist at the South Yorkshire Cardiac Centre, Sheffield, UK and is also a Commercial Pilot. He has a special interest in the sudden adult death syndrome and inherited heart diseases, leading the Genetic Heart Disease Service for the Sheffield and North Trent Region.

He is piloting an aeroplane around the world as part of a major series of lectures, meetings, media and publicity events to raise awareness and stimulate provision of services and support for these disorders.

The sudden adult death syndrome is a dreadful condition that takes young lives, shatters dreams and destroys families. The condition typically afflicts young adults and children that have been completely well and free of any known problems. It is impossible to imagine the effect this has on a family.

Consider your own loved ones and how you would feel were this tragedy to happen in your own family.

Unfortunately awareness of the inherited heart disorders by health care professionals and the public at large is limited and dedicated services are few and far between. Families are left empty, desperate for answers and would have nowhere to turn were it not for the goodwill and considerable dedication of our charities.

We need your help to change this. There are few causes more worthy so please support us and help make our project a success.

Thank you.