Claire runs for healthy hearts

RUNNER, Claire Lister, will be tackle the Goss and Balfe Sapphire Coast Half Marathon at the end of the month on behalf of those who can run and who suffer from a congenital heart defect (CHD).

Claire, who was born with CHD, which included seven different malfunctions of the heart, was overseen by world renowned paediatric cardiac surgeon, Professor Robin Kinsley, the founder of the Children’s Cardiac Foundation of Africa Trust, a South African NGO that assists children born with a structural heart defect to receive free corrective heart surgery.

“I recently got involved with the NPO and I am a CHD warrior! I am taking on the run to raise funds for all the CHD children so that they too can have a chance at a ‘normal’ life,” she said.

CHD hearts are hearts that have not been formed properly, they either have holes between chambers, have incomplete or missing parts, are put together the wrong way, have narrow or leaky valves, have narrow vessels, or even (and often) have many of these defects.

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The Children’s Cardiac Foundation of Africa Trust, based in Durban, helps children who suffer from treatable congenital heart defects such as Atrial septal defect – an abnormal hole between the upper two chambers of the heart, Ventricular septal defect – small to large sized holes between the lower chambers of the heart, and Patent ductus arteriosus – where a persistent connection between the aortic arch and the pulmonary artery can cause excess blood flow to the lungs, and other conditions.

“There are more then 400 children waiting for life-saving surgery in state hospitals. Since the Foundation’s launch in April, they have fixed four little hearts,” said Claire.

She said training has gone pretty well for her run, however she is still nervous. “I think that’s pretty normal though! I am feeling confidant about the fundraising side of it, people have been so supportive and really great at sharing and getting the word out. I am extremely lucky and blessed to have such amazing support in all of my family and friends. I encourage the public to support me in this race and to be part of something special by being a heart hero,” she said.

To support Claire, visit her fundraising page: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/claire-for-tccfa

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