29/09/2025
To mark this year’s World Heart Day, we wanted to share the story of previous patient and charity supporter, Richard. After undergoing open heart surgery last year, Richard has recently completed the incredible challenge of the Coast to Coast walk, covering 192 miles from Cumbria to Yorkshire in just 11 days!
Here Richard tells his story:
“Before my heart attack, I never really experienced any symptoms. I had a busy work schedule at the time however and after coming home one night from work, I felt a pain I’d never experienced before, almost like a compression on my chest. I knew something wasn’t right and so got myself to the hospital where I was transferred to LHCH the next day.
“My consultant, Mr Steele, explained everything to me about my surgery which was great but I still felt nervous about the whole procedure. However, the staff just made me feel like I was in good hands which put me at complete ease.
“After my surgery, I spent around 10 days in LHCH and I really couldn’t fault the care. I was devastated though that I wasn’t able to complete the Coast to Coast challenge as I had originally planned to that same year and I came out of hospital thinking I’ll never be able to do that now, but I was wrong. With a little patience and gradually building myself back up I felt confident in myself to take it on and I’m so glad that I did.
“It was an amazing experience and I’ve managed to raise just over £1,600 for LHCH Charity! I felt it was only right to give something back to the hospital that went above and beyond for me whilst I was in their care. From the doctors, nurses, porters, caterers, cleaners, everyone went above and beyond, and it’s something I’ll forever grateful for.”
Thank you for sharing your story with us Richard. We’re so glad to see how well your recovery has been and would like to say a huge thank you from everyone at LHCH for your support.
