James Walton, 34 from Stoke, has had a life-saving heart transplant thanks to a revolutionary machine which was funded by QEHB Charity and Heart Research UK.

In 2018, QEHB Charity launched a new fundraising appeal to bring a revolutionary new machine to the hospital which had the potential to increase the number of heart transplants that take place at the hospital.

Heart in a Box keeps a donated heart beating outside of the body, keeping it in a better condition for longer, compared to the traditional method of keeping a heart on ice before transplantation.

Now, Heart in a Box has been used to save James Walton’s life. James had Marfan syndrome, and had been living with heart difficulties for many years. James was placed on the urgent heart transplant list in January 2019, after becoming so ill that on some days he couldn’t get out of bed, let alone play with his three year old son, Jack.

James’ wife, Kat, said: “James couldn’t walk more than 100 yards; he couldn’t play football or go to the park. He was exhausted all of the time.”

James with Kat and Jack

Within just five days, James was told that the heart that he so desperately needed had been found for him. Mr Majid Mukadam had retrieved his new heart, and had used Heart in a Box to keep the heart alive before the surgeons were able to transplant it into James.

Following a successful operation, James has been able to return home to Stoke on Trent, and feels much better as a result of his new heart.

James recoverign in hospital with his son, Jack.

Justine Davy, Chief Executive of QEHB Charity, said: “I am so delighted that James has now got a second chance of life and he is feeling healthy following his transplant. It is a fantastic demonstration of the difference that can be made thanks to our supporters.

“A year on from the fundraising campaign for Heart in a Box, it is incredible that lives are now being saved thanks to this revolutionary machine. My thanks go to everyone who donated to this important cause. With your further support, we will be able to provide even more life-saving equipment for the heart team at the hospital.”

Barbara Harpham, Chief Executive at Heart Research UK, said: “To see such a young man given the gift of life is a wonderful way to show it was well worth all the effort to get this revolutionary machine in the Midlands.  It will go on to save many lives.  We’re very grateful to everyone who gave to the Heart in a Box Appeal and at the same time remember with thanks, the donor and their brave family who made this precious gift possible for James.”

Find out more about how QEHB Charity supports heart patients at the hospital here.

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