“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…
Game4Hearts: Jessica
Jessica was born with a hole in her heart and had open heart surgery when she was 8 years old. During her time in hospital, gaming provided a huge relief, joy and distraction from her treatment and continues to play a big part in her life.In 2021, Jessica decided to...
Adalee
written by heart dad Jerome "Adalee was born 9 weeks early. All was going well, and she was soon transferred from York, where she was born, nearer to home in Scunthorpe. This is when they picked up on a slight heart murmur that would be monitored as she went on. "She...
Be a hero for…LOCHIE!
Lochie Blue is 2 years old and lives in Silsden near Keighley. He was diagnosed at 10 days old with Coarctation of the aorta, Ventricular septal defect (VSD) and Atrial septal defect (ASD). Lochie and his family will be at this year's Superhero Walk and we spoke to...