Heart hero Ruben was born in 2019 with coarctation of the aorta. He had open heart surgery at just 3 days old, but mum Laurie Higgins says he is now a ‘happy and healthy’ 6 year old thanks to the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit team.
Laurie tells us why she has chosen to do the Great North Run for CHSF every year since Ruben was born – 2025 will be her 5th race!
“It’s hard to find time to train for a half marathon with Ruben and his 3-year-old sister but I often have to force myself out of the door on an evening after they’ve gone to bed to get the miles in! For anyone thinking of signing up for a half marathon, do it!
“It’s tough but the feeling you get from finishing and, especially the Great North Run, the encouragement from the crowd is like nothing else.
“I like to take part in fancy dress every year to raise as much money as I possibly can for CHSF. I’ve been a turtle and a strawberry and the people, mainly the children of Newcastle, absolutely love it and get behind you cheering and encouraging.
“I usually ask Ruben what costume I should wear and he’s always picked some excellent outfits. This year his suggestions have so far been a diplodocus, a T-Rex and Sonic the Hedgehog so we will see what he lands on in the end!
“In previous years, I have carried a charity bucket on the day which has been a great way to boost my total, as well as getting lots of sponsorship from generous friends, family and heart supporters.
“Ruben had his open heart surgery at 3 days old and it was a successful repair. He is down to check-ups now but they did say there is potential for future interventions as he has a bicuspid valve which should be tricuspid – so we have everything crossed that this doesn’t cause him any issues in future.
“Although the training and the Great North Run race is hard, it will never be as difficult as the day I was told Ruben had to have open heart surgery and the day of the operation. It will also never be as tough as the battles that those amazing heart children face.”
Feeling inspired? Why not run for a reason, and raise some valuable funds for a charity close to your heart?
We have places at races all over our region, and some exciting challenges a little further afield. Head over to our events page and sign up today!
Board Game Night
A night for our young people to have fun, play games and make peer connections!When? Thursday 20th November 2025 Where? Community Space, Wellington Place [Google Maps] Time: 6pm - 9pm Who? CHD Patients (aged 12+) + bring a friend!Join the CHSF team for an exciting...
Paint & Sip
Sign up for our new event 'Paint & Sip' this October Half TermWhen? Monday 27th October 2025 Where? HEART: Headingley Enterprise & Arts Centre [Google Maps] Time: 5pm - 7pm Who? CHD Patients (aged 13+)Join the CHSF team for an exciting evening at our first...
Youth Day: August 2025
Calling all 13-16 year olds!Sign up for our Youth Day this summerWhen? Tuesday 12th August 2025 Where? Lineham Farm, Leeds [Google Maps] Time: 9:30am - 3:30pm (lunch included!)Join the CHSF team for an exciting day at Lineham Farm this summer! Meet other young people...