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: February 2026

Support for families: February 2026

During the month of February... 50 families worked with overall 26 families received a tailored packaged of Family Support 24 families engaged with -- 17 young people and their families worked with and supported 22 Travel Grants given 8 attended Cardiac Cafe 27...

Mabel

Mabel

This is Mabel’s story, shared by her family after discovering complications with her heart during pregnancy. Children’s Heart Surgery Fund supports the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit, helping provide the care and equipment needed throughout her treatment.written by mum...

Florence Dottie: Heart Month 2026

Florence Dottie: Heart Month 2026

Florence’s journey into the world of congenital heart disease began long before her family were ready for it. What followed was a difficult mix of fear, medical decisions and tiny moments of hope that carried them through.Mum Kelly, from Halifax, said: “Florence’s...