Heart attack survivor set to cycle from London to Brighton
A woman from Mitcham who survived a heart attack four years ago is getting ready to take on a cycling endurance event to thank the NHS team that helped her to recover.
In 2018 Alison Lee spent four weeks in hospital following her heart attack and later received intensive therapy from the Cardiac Rehabilitation team at Croydon University Hospital. Alison now volunteers with the same team that supported her as a patient and helps other heart attack survivors.
Alison will take part in the London to Brighton cycle ride on Sunday 11 September and has raised over £500 for Croydon Health Charity. Alison said:
“After my heart attack the Cardiac Rehab team’s kindness, professionalism and humanity got me back on my feet, and prevented my mental health from declining at the same time. This event will be my biggest physical challenge but I am determined to complete it as a way of thanking the team”.
Cardiac rehabilitation helps cardiac patients to return to good health and enjoy an improved quality of life after a cardiac event such as a heart attack, heart surgery or stent procedure. It includes exercise, education and psychological support.
Alison will join 12 other Croydon Health Charity supporters who are cycling a combined 715 miles from London to Brighton. The 55-mile event starts from Clapham Common, travelling through Mitcham, Carshalton, Chipstead, Banstead, Haywards Heath and finally to Brighton.
The team includes Stuart Worden, Principal of The BRIT School, a Neonatal Nurse, Liver Specialist, Anaesthetist, Volunteer and Gastroenterology Lead for Croydon Health Services NHS Trust.
Christina Clynes, Head of Fundraising and Communications, Croydon Health Charity said:
“We’re delighted that our first ever cycling team is taking on the London to Brighton challenge to help enhance local NHS services. Sponsorship makes a difference to patients and staff in so many ways from funding additional medical equipment and resources to bereavement gardens and staff wellbeing projects. We wish the team the best of luck and fingers crossed for no punctures!”
Visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/alison-lee26 to donate to Alison’s challenge.