Story
Thank you for supporting my TCS London Classics (Ride London - 100 miles), Swim Serpentine (2 miles) and London marathon (26.2 miles) journey.
The British Heart Foundation are the official London marathon 2022 charity of the year, and my daughter Joanna and I both have a place to run/jog/walk!
As many of you will know, Joanna, is currently recovering from her second successful complex open heart surgery. IF we make it to the finish line, this will be a massive achievement, less than a year after such a significant operation.
Whilst already especially poignant for us, this event also marks our special birthdays (50 & 21!), and therefore we feel that the timing was meant to be and adds to our once in a lifetime experience (I, certainly had no intention of running one marathon, and this 100% will be the only one!)
In October 2021, Joanna received a mechanical mitral valve, at St Bart's Hospital, London. The relief and gratitude that we all experienced cannot be described. Her positive attitude and determination have contributed to an astounding rehabilitation.
Mechanical valves were first used in the 1960's, and whilst
heart valve research has continued at pace, and alternatives (such as pig valves and polymers) have been introduced in some cases, Joanna's mechanical valve means that she will have a lifelong reliance on Warfarin (anticoagulant medication), an end to her beloved contact sports and a restriction on certain foods/ alcohol intake.
BHF research into polymeric valves (PoliValve) is likely to
transform heart valve treatment in the future providing a greatly improved outcome and quality of life.
With your donations, we are raising money for one of the most exciting fields of research - regenerative medicine. We're aiming to fund breakthroughs and find cutting edge new treatments for people living with heart disease. The race is on to heal hearts together.
Donations to my page will be sent directly to the British Heart Foundation in a fast and secure way. Thank you x