Eliza-Rose has had three open heart surgeries at the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit and isn’t even two. Mum Charlotte and dad Ben told us a bit more about Eliza-Rose’s journey with CHD so far and why they think it is important to support Wear Red Day…
“Eliza-Rose was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect at 20 weeks called Pulmonary Atresia with a ventricular septal defect. She underwent open heart surgery at just 11 days old to fit a BT Shunt.
“After being at home around two weeks, Eliza-Rose was re-admitted to Ward 51 with a really bad wound infection. This led to Eliza-Rose having her chest open for two weeks, and a seven week stay in hospital.
“Eliza-Rose is now 17 months old and has not long since had her third open heart surgery.
“Wear Red Day is very important to us and all the other heart families out there. It’s a day that helps to celebrate all the heart heroes.
“It means a lot to us as we know some of the money raised at events and fundraisers like this has contributed to the support we have received and the care that Eliza-Rose has had, and will continue to need throughout her journey.
“We are so grateful for everyone who wears red and supports Children Heart Surgery Fund!”
Wear Red Day is the biggest event in our calendar that generates vital, life-saving income for our charity to support patients like Eliza-Rose, their families and the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit.
From red raffles and bake sales, to getting your whole school or workplace involved, what could you do to raise some extra £££’s for CHSF this Wear Red Day?
Because Of Carin: Letter from Carin
Dear CHSF supporter, After more than 30 years in congenital cardiac surgery and over a decade leading the team at the Leeds Congenital Heart Unit (LCHU), I will soon be retiring.It has been the privilege of my life to care for babies, children, teenagers and adults...
Support for families: September 2025
“You have been wonderful, please keep up the outstanding work” - heart mumDuring the month of September... 7 referrals received for targeted Family Support 7 families engaged with 6 young people and their families worked with and supported Financial support in...
Because of Carin: Share Your Story
Share your story This is a space for patients and families to share stories and messages with Ms Carin van Doorn OBE as she prepares to retire at the end of the year. If you or your child was treated by Carin, we’d love for you to leave messages, photos and videos...