I am doing some fundraising and taking part in an event to help Natalie try to achieve her goal of raising £12,000 for CHUF in 12 Months.

Natalies 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. Natalie 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 her in the future.

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

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

What is the 12 campaign about?

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

She will organise a variety of events to step outside 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 her progress through regular social media updates and this page.

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

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.

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! ♥️

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Events & Challenges confirmed by Natalie

February- Heart Month ♥️

Community Coffee & Cake Morning🧁Saturday 1st February 2025. St Mary’s church & Parish. Event link: https://www.facebook.com/share/12KG8HKx3P8/?mibextid=9l3rBW

- #WearRedForChuf and raising awareness about CHD

March - Natalie’s Birthday 🎂 In celebration of my birthday, I will be asking friends and family to consider donating to my fundraising campaign instead of giving presents and cards whilst I recover from surgery.

April - 🐣 🍫 Easter Raffle with opportunity to win lots of chocolate and a surprise prize 🏆

May - Summer is coming🌷Rotary Middlesbrough Erimus Tees Heritage Walk 🚶🏼‍♀️ Sunday 18th May 2025. Middlesbrough College to Stockton’s Millennium Bridge.

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Chuf Trek on Saturday 12th July 2025 ⛰️

AJ Bell Great North 5k 🏃🏼‍♀️ Friday 5th September 2025. Quayside, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

* *This list will be updated as more events are confirmed throughout the year. If you wish to participate in any of these events, please contact Natalie at Natalie.chufchallenge@gmail.com.

You can follow my journey on social media here: https://www.facebook.com/share/PoU2NkqGMgkvVEYN/?mibextid=LQQJ4d).

Please share ♥️