Letter from our Founder

Here is a letter from Hazel Ward, one of the founders of Take Heart, who couldn’t attend our AGM but sent this to be read out. I think you’ll agree it’s an inspiring piece:

Hello Elaine, following is my report for the AGM.
Please feel free to amend it if it’s too long or there’s something inappropriate.

Report to THSG Annual General Meeting
I was really hoping to be at the AGM this year but unfortunately a hospital date keeps me away. However there was I had a very special anniversary recently which I’d like to share with you.
Friday December 13th 2024 marked a milestone in my life which may boost you’re hopes of longevity despite the problems with your heart. That date in 1974 was the date of my triple coronary bypass operation. I was living in Canada, teaching PE at the time and just 31 years of age. I still remember the shock and having to phone home to let the family know. My mother, who had never been on an aeroplane before, bravely flew over to be with me.
Friday 13th December 2024 marked the 50th anniversary of that operation and was celebrated with family and friends. The party was a surprise for me as was ‘This is your life which Charles had put together and which reminded me of the first few sessions of “TakeHeart; the positive approach to coronary care” run by Enid Gill and me in the hall of Bertram Ramsey school. What a long way Take Heart has come from there! We moved to the gym at the Woodlands Road centre of Teesside University, then to Longlands College and eventually rented a unit at Bow Street in Guisborough. Enid had changed jobs and wasn’t able to be part of the training team once we’d moved to Longlands but luckily for THSG three lovely,dedicated tutors, Glenda Walton, Christine Auffret and Elaine Hartley joined us. Anne Newnham, who had worked at the Health Authority was also able to join us and eventually took over as Chairman and has been instrumental in developing the spread of classes as well as taking the group at Coulby Newham.
Madge Preston together with 2 volunteers Moria and May managed the office.
Eventually the hospital decided to take over the Cardiac Rehabilitation and “Take Heart Support Group” became a registered charity run by a wonderful group of volunteers.
My own journey has been filled with many ups and downs. On the upside were the many walking adventures we had with the Bow Street Walkers. The White Rose, Lyke Wake and Coast to Coast were real challenges and the weekends in the Lake District and Peak District,where we walked all day and played some very silly games and danced in the evenings. Through THSG I met some wonderful people.
The downside particularly latterly has been my own health. A second bypass in 1988 followed by many interventions. The original grafts are still there, though one now has stents to keep it open. In addition I’ve had 2 heart attacks, a small stroke and now also have a pacemaker. But I’m still here, still thoroughly enjoying life and all it has to offer, though less mobile and long walks don’t feature anymore. I’m so thankful to the doctors, consultants and surgeons without whom none of us would be here!
I can only encourage you to keep looking after your heart. The basic rules of exercise, relaxation, a healthy diet, weight control, alcohol within the guidelines and not smoking still apply. But with the experience of the last 50 years I would add laugh a lot. It’s infinitely better for your health than crying! Fill your days with the things you enjoy. Have a good support system; family and friends. For me the main support is a strong belief in God.
I wish THSG and all of you a very happy and healthy life.