On September 4, 2018, Bernard Larkin celebrated his 70th birthday with his friends and family. Rather than asking for gifts he decided to fundraise for QEHB Charity instead.

On Bernard’s 67th birthday in 2015, he was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham. Bernard had a tumour on his heart that led him to have an operation to have it removed, replacing his ascending aorta and receiving an ablation, also known as catheter ablation which is a treatment that aims to control or correct certain types of abnormal heart rhythms. After over 6 hours in surgery and a complication following it, Bernard was back on the ward and was looked after by the amazing cardiac team who were there to sing happy birthday to him.

Three years on, to celebrate Bernard’s 70th birthday he asked for no gifts, only that his family members and friends donate to the cardiac unit that helped to save his life. In total, they raised an amazing £800!

Bernard said: “For my last milestone birthday, my 60th, people were buying me lots of things and although they were very lovely, I didn’t need them. I just wanted them to generously give to such an amazing cause that will help so many people.

“During the dark moments, when someone’s there to hold your hand- it’s priceless”

Sophie Carroll, Fundraising Officer at QEHB Charity said: “As a charity, we are so incredibly grateful that Bernard decided to raise such a substantial amount of money for the cardiac unit here at QEHB. The money raised will continue to provide the ‘added extras’ that go ‘over and above’ what the NHS can afford for patients. Your donation will truly make a difference to others, thank you, Bernard!”

For more information on how you can donate to QEHB Charity, please click here

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