News - 2nd May 2008

There is nothing that can compare the warmth and depth of the welcome as received from members of the British Heart Foundation (BHF) given to the three representatives of the Fishguard Cardiac Group, and other groups attending the second BHF conference in Wales, held at the Heronston Hotel in Bridgend on Thursday 1st May 08. Our Group’s Chairman Terry Grover was honoured and privileged to address members and dignitaries attending the conference on how the Fishguard Cardiac Group was formed and the excellent progress they had made in such a short period of time, which Terry managed to achieve with total admiration, supported by a DVD of our group in exercise mode, compiled by Barrie Thomas, and indeed the wonderful support of the Big Lottery Fund managed by Pembrokeshire Local Health Board & Pembrokeshire County Council Leisure. Also the brilliant publicity given of our work in the local County Echo & website pages sponsored by ePembs. Many other Cardiac & Supportive Heart Groups from all over Wales were in attendance at the meeting, and a cross pollution of thoughts and ideas were exchanged amongst the Groups. The Director of Prevention and Care for Heart Diseases, Dr Mike Knapton, BHF gave praise on the wonderful work Cardiac Groups in Wales, are contributing towards the after-care of patients suffering with Heart Problems in particular helping of patients gain their confidence and self-esteem after Cardiac surgery and indeed the support given to patients Carers.

On Friday 2nd May 08 a warm welcome was given to two young Ladies Amy & Sian from form six of Ysgol Bro Gwaun who were conducting a school project, regarding the benefits achieved from exercise in particular those that had undergone Heart surgery. These two very polite pupils were a credit to they’re school and to their parents in the courteous manner and participation in exercise whilst asking questions relating to their project. Well done to you both.

Steps2Health and Healthy Heart Community Rehabilitation walks will now take place in the Afternoon. This will allow the morning Cardiac Rehabilitation session to be held as normal. All members who usually attend the afternoon session are welcome to attend in the morning on these days if they so wish. For further information contact: - Irene Hartup, Cardiac Rehab: Nurse Specialist on 07770326248.

Our next merry meeting of “Terry and his pacemakers” will be held on Friday 9th May 08, at the Fishguard Leisure Centre, with the first session starting at 10.45 am and the second at 2.00 pm. Hopefully we will have representatives from Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services (PAVS) visiting us. For more information either contact Terry Grover on 01239 820607 or John Palmer on 01348 872240 or indeed why not visit our website www.FishguardCRG.co.uk as so generously sponsored by ePembs.