Life can sometimes be harsh, living it to the fullest is not a privilege but a right. I am determined to radiate joy and shine bright for the world to see my inner potentials despite these challenges. My name is Andi, I was born with congenital heart defects occasioned by Atrio-ventricular septal defect (AVSD), transposition of great arteries (TGA), Pulmonary hypertension.

For most of my life, the ventilator kept me alive. While most people breathe through their noses, I do so through a tube inserted through my neck (tracheostomy) by a talented team of NHS surgeons. Initially, I was fed using nasogastric tube (NGT) but I could not tolerate this for long, so I now have blended diets through the gastrostomy (PEG) tube.

I am now learning to walk with the help of my parents and physiotherapists. Seeing my fifth birthday is a combination of the supernatural touch of God and the skills of the NHS medical staff.

With the funding squeeze affecting the NHS, not many will live to tell their own stories like me. Funding cuts will result in the suspension of many lifesaving services leaving the fate of many families in their own hands. This year I am a mascot, participating in the Battle of the Badges organised by Archie Foundation. Therefore, I am pleading with every kind-hearted person to join me in supporting the great work the NHS is doing by donating to my just giving page.

Your support for NHS is for me because I feel happy when no one suffers unnecessarily due lack of adequate medical care.

Thank you for your donations!