Our Cardiac Rehabilitation and Heart Failure Teams are celebrating after receiving a fantastic turnout to their first-ever cardiac support group. Last week's event was held at the Shay Stadium in Halifax.  

Consultant Cardiologist, Dr Talal Ezzo, opened the evening with a presentation on the heart, cardiac medications, and the different cardiac conditions that many in the audience related to. Following the presentation, guests were encouraged to mingle with refreshments and to attend the many information stands. Most of took took this opportunity to discuss with staff, including Dr Ezzo, the experts at the stands and their peers, their needs and personal experiences of heart failure and cardiac disease. 

Cardiac Rehabilitation and Heart Failure Team Leader, Clair Jones, said: "What an amazing night - and hopefully the first of many.

"Although we were prepared for many people to attend, the evening proved far more successful than anticipated, with more than 100 people in attendance. The Cardiac Rehab and Heart Failure Team stepped up and worked seamlessly throughout the evening. 

"The evening started off with an unplanned fire alarm, which put our skills to the test, but the team worked both calmly and quickly to evacuate the building and get the guests to the designated fire safety points. Once given the all clear, guests were guided back to the function and the evening began!

"I would like to thank all those who attended the session and made it the success it was, but a very special thank you must go out to the Cardiac Rehabilitation and Heart Failure Team for their hard work and dedication in making the evening such an accomplishment." 

Positive patient feedback from the event included:

"Don't think it could be any better."

"Brilliant session, very informative. The support is exceptional."

"All of it easy to understand for my 85-year-old dad."