Jodie ready to walk over 50 miles from Leeds to Chesterfield
Callie in hospital after her open heart surgery
Heart mum Jodie has put her heart and SOLE into fundraising for CHSF.
The sore feet and aching legs were worth it though to say thank you for saving her daughter’s life…
Jodie spoke to us about her challenge and why it meant so much to fundraise for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund…
Our daughter underwent open heart surgery just before her 1st Birthday. Children’s Heart Surgery Fund means so much to us and we wanted to give something back.
There is so much the charity funds. The facilities they are able to provide to the wards; the accommodation for parents; Katie bears; information packs; medical equipment; psychology and counselling…it all makes a world of difference.
When Callie had her open heart surgery we were provided with accommodation as we do not live near Leeds. This was so valuable to us. Not just financially but mentally as well, knowing we were close to Callie while she stayed in hospital.
The Katie Bear teddy Callie was given after her surgery will be something to treasure and the information pack from the charity really helped.
I struggled with anxiety during and after Callie’s open heart surgery and I was able to use the counselling service provided by Children’s Heart Surgery Fund.
To raise funds for CHSF we have just completed a continuous, 52 mile walk from Leeds back to our home in Chesterfield.
This was the first bit of fundraising we have done for the charity (although we do play the Lottery and have a go on the raffles when they are around!) We chose to walk this route as we have driven it so many times, it felt quite close…but it wasn’t close at all!
Our advice for anyone thinking about fundraising for CHSF – plan! Take time to plan the details and advertise you event. Don’t be shy in asking people for help and support!
Do something that is a challenge to yourself but enjoyable – do anything you are able to – every little helps. Don’t compare to other people’s fundraising. Every story and community is different!
Callie with her Katie Bear after surgery
Jodie’s husband Kevin joined her on the 52 mile route
Jodie and Kevin at the finish line with Callie and her big sister
Children’s Heart Surgery Fund is a charity very close to our hearts. The work they do is amazing and we are very grateful.
And we are so grateful to YOU! Thank you Jodies, Kevin and all your family and friends who joined you along the walking route or donated.
CHSF are only able to keep being there for heart warriors and their families because of you!
Chesterfield nursery raises £1,300 for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund
Staff and youngsters at Callie’s nursery in Chesterfield wanted to get in on the walking challenge. Youngsters at Children 1st @ St Peter and St Paul took on the challenge of walking three laps of their school field – an impressive total of 2,712 steps in 30 minutes!
Feeling inspired?
Could you step up to the challenge and start fundraising for CHSF? We’ve got lots of events to choose from at chsf.org.uk/events
Got your own idea? Want to try something different? We’re always on hand to discuss your fundraising. Email lisa.williams@chsf.org.uk or call 0113 831 4810
More fundraising inspiration…
Fundraiser of the Month: Chris Silcock
Chris took on 'The Wall Ultramarathon' on the 14th June 2025 - a 70-mile run along and around the historic Hadrian’s Wall. Chris is a family friend of heart warrior Freddie McDonald. Freddie's family are organising a fundraising ball later in the year and Chris wanted...
Nick Buckley: 125 miles for CHSF
After his daughter was born with CHD, heart dad Nick decided to take on the awesome challenge of walking 125 miles for the 1 in 125 born with a heart defect. At first, he thought he'd be walking along - but in April he completed his challenge with an army of friends...
#TeamCHSF Dragon Boat Challenge 2025
On Saturday 12th July, the CHSF team will be competing in a Dragon Boat Race - and we'd love your support! Organised by the Rotary Club of Wakefield Chantry and Normanton, it’s a fun day for the whole family. #TeamCHSF will complete against 40 teams from local...