This month it was great to join the Yorkshire & Humber Congenital Cardiac Network Board meeting with doctors, nurses and cardiac teams across the region. For most of the meeting it’s an opportunity for me to listen and take in all of the work and developments across the region, but it was also great to identify how Children’s Heart Surgery Fund can support with initiatives to support good oral hygiene and communication with dentists.

We’ve also been busy planning for our Superhero Walk in September which is shaping up to be another full and busy day. Fingers crossed we get lovely weather (though we do have an inside option if not!) A huge thanks to MI & Co Portrait Studio for donating loads of ‘move grade’ superhero costumes for the day – keep your eyes peeled for more info on this soon!

I also enjoyed joining Otley Golf Club in the evening of their ‘Festival of Golf 2026’. We had such a warm welcome from the group and I really enjoy having that quality time with our supporters to be able to talk about the work we do and the difference you make. We are also looking forward to our own Charity Golf Day at Otley in September. Book on here!

We are now recruiting for a new full-time Corporate Partnerships Manager. Please do share this opportunity with your networks. We know many of the families we have supported have nominated us to their employer to take on fundraising challenges and Charity of Year partnerships – all of this support means so much to us.

Finally, I would like to say a huge thank you to Dr Malenka Bissell. Malenka’s time as Trustee for Children’s Heart Surgery Fund has come to the end of her term, although we know Malenka continues to be a friend and supporter of the charity. It’s been great working with Malenka whose contributions to Board discussions have been thoughtful, inspiring, kind and challenging. Malenka – we will miss your input but look forward to working with you and your amazing team in support the work that you do hospital.

Stay safe in the warm weather,

Ruth

Support for families: December 2025

Support for families: December 2025

During the month of December... 38 referrals received for targeted Family Support 39 families engaged with 11 young people and their families worked with and supported 337 families supported in 2025 As we look back on the year, we reflect with pride on what the Family...

Support for families: November 2025

Support for families: November 2025

“That was the best night sleep I had in weeks! You don’t realise it, but having those beds there when I needed it was amazing”” - heart dad - about CHSF-funded parent roomsDuring the month of November... 24 referrals received for targeted Family Support 12 families...

About The Big Give #ChristmasCampaign 2025

About The Big Give #ChristmasCampaign 2025

What? The Big Give #ChristmasChallenge is our Christmas campaign for this year and all donations you give NOW are doubled - but please hurry, the campaign doesn't last long! When? Tuesday 2nd December midday - Tuesday 9th December midday Why? To fund parent...