Support group gives heart to others
HEART patients are receiving a boost from others going through similar experiences at a cardiac support group in Sheffield.
The Hallamshire Hearties was formed in 1995 when sister Margaret Osborne, a coronary nurse at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital, joined the eight founding members.
They were given 100 from the British Heart Foundation to cover start-up costs, with further funding provided by Westfield Health. It is now attended by between 25 and 30 people, who have all suffered some sort of heart problem.
Chairman Sheila Mitchell said: "The support group has been running for 15 years and is the only one in the area which deals with people suffering from any heart condition.
"It is like one big family here and if someone does not attend then we give them a quick call to make sure they are all right."
The members can chat, play bingo, take part in quizzes and attend events such as trips to the seaside. Every Tuesday some members take part in exercise at Upperthorpe Healthy Living Centre.
Founding member Fred Everill, aged 72, from Fulwood, said: "When you have had a heart attack you feel alone and out of things.
"But now with this group you're not on your own."
Pat Heath, 71, of Chatsworth Road, Chesterfield, added: "I come here every week by bus and I enjoy socialising, bingo and quizzes. It's a very friendly place to come to."
The group meets every Monday between 9.45am and 11.45am at St Mark's Church Hall on Beech Hill Road, opposite the Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield.
Contact Sheila Mitchell on 0114 251 4754 for information.
BUY ONLINE: The Sheffield Telegraph and Property Guide are now out every Thursday. To sign up on line click here.
MORE:
Local News
Local Sport
Arts Guide
Community News
Listings Guide
Restaurant Guide
Letters
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Sheffield
Saturday 04 February 2012
Today
Heavy snow
Temperature: -2 C to -0 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: South
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 1 C to 5 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: West
