New support for heart patients

A NEW support group has been set up to help people with heart problems.

It has been organised by previous heart patients who have had rehabilitation at the Trentside Day Unit at John Coupland Hospital.

Gainsborough Heart Support Group had its inaugural meeting at the unit earlier this month.

Deputy chairman Ian Davidson, 71, of Cecil Court, said: “There’s a gap between Louth, Scunthorpe and Lincoln for this kind of group, which is why we felt there was a need for one here.”

“We have been busy organising it since January and we are affiliated to the British Heart Foundation.”

Mr Davidson had two heart attacks in 2008 when he was living in Zimbabwe.

On his return to this country he had rehabilitation at the Trentside unit.

His partner Julie Lax is a volunteer there and is an associate committee member of the support group.

Mr Davidson said the group would be a good place to talk to other people who had been through the same or similar experiences.

“We are hoping to have guest speakers to come and give a talk on various subjects, not all to do with health issues to give some variety,” he said.

“There will also be tea and coffee and light refreshments available.”

Membership of the group is open to anyone in Gainsborough and surrounding villages who has coronary heart disease or other heart problems, and their carers and family members.

The group will meet on the second Wednesday of the month.

The next meeting will be at the Scout Hut on Love Lane, Gainsborough, on 13th June, 7-9pm.

Mr Davidson said: “The first meeting is free and after that a small fee of £2 per person will be charged.”

“However, with this you will receive a raffle ticket.”

Future ideas include days out, exercise buddying and a barbecue.

For more information call Mr Davidson on 01427 616610.

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