“As I prepare to leave the operating theatre, I want to know that families will continue to get what they need – because of your support, because of this campaign, and as ever… because of you!”
— Ms Carin Van Doorn OBE
Watch now
To celebrate Carin van Doorn’s amazing career, we have put together this short film which features personal insights from Carin and inspirational input from staff, families and heart heroes.
A huge thank to you everyone involved!
Funds raised through the Because of Carin appeal will go towards:
Supporting families through the storm
Vital medical resources
Read all about some of the vital projects CHSF funded last year in our 2024 Impact Report
Nurturing our local heart community
World-class care
Louie #BecauseOfCarin
“We will never be able to repay Carin van Doorn for taking that chance on our boy, for believing in him and for changing our lives forever. For believing in herself and having confidence in the process. For giving him the chance at life he deserves, the surgery he always deserved and fought so hard for. “A nurse said to me ‘I never really believed in God… but if there is one it’s Carin van Doorn’. The woman that saved our baby boy. Here’s to our little Louie’s road of recovery – to a long, happy and meaningful life because of Carin.” — Louie’s mum, Emily
£15 could pay for
A Katie Bear, medal and certificate given to every child after they have open heart surgery at Leeds. This is a treasured keepsake and a reminder of a child’s bravery.
£125 could pay for
A KardiaMobile device which attaches to a smart phone and monitors heart rhythms in children at home, so they don’t have to miss school for hospital appointments.
£750 could pay for
15 nights in CHSF parent accommodation for those who don’t live in Leeds, but their child needs surgery at the LCHU. These rooms keep families closer together.
£2,500 could pay for
Hosting Youth Events for one year providing essential peer support and connections with young people who have shared experiences of CHD care across our region.
“Thank you – for your kindness, your support and your belief in CHSF’s mission and the future of the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit. It has been an absolute honour to be a part of this world-class team.”
Ms Carin van Doorn OBE
Consultant Congenital Cardiac Surgeon
Trustee, Children’s Heart Surgery Fund
“Thank you – for your kindness, your support and your belief in CHSF’s mission and the future of the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit. It has been an absolute honour to be a part of this world-class team.”
— Ms Carin Van Doorn OBE, Consultant Congenital Cardiac Surgeon & Trustee, Children’s Heart Surgery Fund
After dedicating her life to children’s cardiac care, we want to ensure that Carin’s legacy at Leeds lives on after she retires. You can help us do just that.
Because of Carin: Billy
As part of our Because of Carin campaign, celebrating the incredible career of Carin van Doorn, Billy’s family share their memories of her support. Carin performed two life-saving heart surgeries on Billy - and their words show just how much her care and dedication...
Because of Carin: Seth
Heart mum Charlotte found out at her 20-week scan that her little boy Seth had Transposition of the Great Arteries. Charlotte told us about Seth’s journey through treatment at the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit and how he is faring back home in Chesterfield.written by...
Because Of Carin: Letter from Carin
Dear CHSF supporter, After more than 30 years in congenital cardiac surgery and over a decade leading the team at the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit (LCHU), I will soon be retiring.It has been the privilege of my life to care for babies, children, teenagers and adults...