In recognition of National Heart Month, which takes place every February, local charity Heartlink is encouraging residents to find out more about the work it does to support the borough’s heart patients and their families.
Heartlink is Ealing Hospital’s Heart Support Group and has been working in the borough offering help and support for almost 30 years. It is a lifeline for many local residents. It is also the chosen charity of the Mayor of Ealing, Councillor Mohinder Midha, for her mayoral year.
Bernard Diamant, a Heartlink committee member, said: “The charity helps people who are lonely and isolated and advises patients about care. We also work in the wider community and with key health partners to promote services and facilities for all heart patients in Ealing.
“I was diagnosed with a heart murmur by chance when I went to have a vaccination, heart problems can often go undetected so it’s really important for people to be aware and have health checks. It can affect all ages. Our members are a great support in offering strength and experience to other people that might be affected, including families and carers.”
The charity hosts regular events for people to attend and show their support. A fundraising dinner and sponsored walk, with the Mayor of Ealing, are being held in March.
Speaking last year, after announcing her charities for the year, Councillor Midha said: “This is a charity close to my heart, because South Asians have a high risk for heart disease and diabetes. I hope that I can help support the great work that they do for the community, especially the South Asian people.”
So far more than £14,000 has been raised by the Mayor, thanks to people’s generosity.
Heartlink campaigns widely in the community to raise awareness and to encourage people to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Staying fit and healthy
Bernard added: “We have regular Wednesday walks and would encourage people to come and join us. It’s a great way to keep fit and healthy while enjoying a great walk and good company.”
The group meets at 10am every Wednesday outside Greenford Hall in Ruislip Road.
“We also have cardiologists from the hospital giving really good heart related health talks, we’ve got some chair yoga sessions coming up and have regular social meet ups,” he said.
A tribute
Heartlink members pay tribute this week to Les Doble, a founding member and stalwart of the charity. Les served on the committee as treasurer and a trustee. He is remembered as ‘a strong and determined man who worked hard to ensure Heartlink was successful in supporting local heart patients.’
The charity’s president, Professor Jaspal Kooner, said: “We will all remember him as a most gentle and kind man and one of the greatest pillars of Heartlink.”
A service is due to be held on Tuesday 28 February, at St Christopher’s Church in Bordars Road, Hanwell, before proceeding to Breakspear Crematorium in Ruislip.
