My Personal Story


In the UK, 1 in every 100 babies is born with congenital heart disease (CHD) each day. Each child's experience is unique; some face significant obstacles, while others find hope through essential treatments and care.

The mission of CHUF (Children's Heart Unit Fund) resonates deeply with me. I was born with a congenital heart defect known as Transposition of the Great Arteries, a condition that is currently incurable, indicating that a heart transplant awaits me in the future.

The Children's Heart Unit at Freeman Hospital was like a second home to me growing up, where the dedicated doctors, nurses, and staff have provided me with a fighting chance. I am profoundly thankful for their support. Over the years, I have witnessed the remarkable influence this ward has on families during both joyous and challenging times. This year, my aim is to give back. ♥️

The last months have been particularly challenging for me. I have faced health issues that left me battling uncertainty, I have felt stuck in a chapter of my life where I gained weight and lost the belief that I could do hard things.At times, I questioned my worthiness of chasing my goals.

Recently, I found the inspiration to crawl out of that dark space and focused on moving forwards despite a diagnosis of cancer too. I made a list of things I wanted to do, and one thing stood out: to push myself physically, mentally, and emotionally for a cause that truly matters. I realised that if I could change my own life and get back on the road to health, I could also use this opportunity to make a difference for others. Rather than simply doing a hike to raise money for CHUF, I wanted to engage in a series of challenges and events that would push me completely out of my comfort zone.

So…. For the next 12 months, I’ll be participating in a series of events, whether that be running, hiking, or walking (along with hosting fundraisers) to raise money for CHUF while also getting fit and in shape. I have titled this the ‘12 Campaign,’ where I hope to inspire others to believe that anything is possible while I have the opportunity, hoping to make a difference for other heart families across the northeast.

What is the 12 campaign about?

Commencing in February 2025 and concluding in January 2026, I am embarking on an ambitious mission to raise £12,000 for CHUF. My target is to raise at least £1,200, but I aim to exceed that with your support!

I will organise a variety of events to step outside my comfort zone, and take on physical challenges —all in support of heart families. From 5k runs to bake sales and quiz nights, I will engage in monthly activities to advance this campaign. You can follow my progress through regular social media updates and this page.

This journey will be challenging, as I have never undertaken anything of this magnitude before. I am eager to push my limits and tackle challenges that extend beyond my comfort zone, all in hopes of maximising my fundraising efforts!

This undoubtedly will be one of the most challenging yet rewarding year of my life.

Why CHUF?

CHUF is dedicated to enhancing the lives of children born with or developing heart conditions. Through their efforts, CHUF offers lifelong support to children and their families, ensuring they have access to necessary care and the resilience to move forward. Their influence extends across Northern England, positively impacting families and children receiving treatment at Freeman Hospital and other cardiac units.

Tragically, a close friend of mine lost her daughter last year after a lengthy battle waiting for both lung and heart transplants, during which her daughter spent considerable time on the children’s ward at Freeman. I hope to host an event in her memory and raise awareness about the critical importance of organ donation.

Any contribution, no matter how small, has the potential to create lasting change. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who is helping and supporting this important cause; I couldn't do it without you! ♥️

If you wish to participate or volunteer, please contact Natalie at Natalie.chufchallenge@gmail.com.

You can follow my journey and challenges over the course of the next 12 months on social media here: https://www.facebook.com/share/PoU2NkqGMgkvVEYN/?mibextid=LQQJ4d).

Please share ♥️