“Hi, my name is Harry Austin and I’m writing this, with the hope that it will give some hope and comfort, however big or small, to children with congenital heart problems.”
I was born with a coarctation of the aorta and a bicuspid valve in August 1999 and in the October of 1999, I underwent surgery to have my coarctation repaired.
Due to the amazing work of all the surgeons, doctors and staff at the LGI, and the love support and strength of my amazing family, the surgert was very successful.
Thankfully, this meant I haven’t had to have any more heart surgery.
I am currently a very active and fit 22 year old man who lives a very full life.
I am about to start my master’s degree, in political theory, in September this year, having graduated with a degree in politics in 2021.
Harry with his mum at the LGI after open heart surgery at 2 months old.
I hope sharing my story and experience of the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit and how me and muy family were supported by Children’s Heart Surgery Fund helps serve as an example to children who are experiencing things similar to what I have.
I would like to say that even though they might be going through one of the cruellest and unbearable experiences imaginable, no matter what you can overcome it and live a full, happy and rewarding life. Just like I did and am.
Thank you to CHSF for allowing me to share my story, and thank you to all the doctors, surgeons, and staff at the LGI that saved my life 22 years ago – and continue to save countless others.
All your work doesn’t go unnoticed, and you and your work is extremely appreciated. Myself and my family will be forever grateful. Thank you. 🙏 ❤️
On #WarriorWednesday, we celebrate the amazing heart heroes we support in our region.
We tell their stories to raise vital awareness of congenital heart disease and recognise the care of the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit.
If you would like to make a regular or one-off donation to help fund CHSF’s life-saving work, you can do so here. Thank you.
More from the blog…
Heart dad, grandad and uncle ride 150 miles inspired by Isabel
Featured in: Derbyshire Times, Worksop Guardian A Derbyshire dad saddled up for a long bike ride to the coast over the weekend to add to the thousands his family have raised for a charity which supported them when his daughter was critically ill as a baby. Hospitality...
Aria’s Story
8-year-old Aria was born with serious congenital heart conditions - coarctation of the aorta and aortic stenosis. She required open heart surgery at just 3 days old but it had to be delayed as she developed sepsis. Mum Jodie picks up the story, including their...
Luca’s Story
The awesome team at Enterprise Mobility all got behind their colleague Francesca this February to celebrate Wear Red Day. Francesca's son Luca was born with congenital heart defects and needed life-saving open heart surgery at just one week old.Francesca said: “We...