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A truly heartfelt cause for Danny

Eve Dugdale
24/ 8/2005

A HADFIELD pensioner who had a heart attack five years ago is providing other sufferers with a free confidential support network.

Danny Jenkins, 71, said he felt overwhelmed and didn't know who to talk to when he had the cardiac arrest and quadruple bypass.

"I went into hospital and somebody I was sat next to in the waiting room told me about Heartlink so I went along.

"It was a really nice atmosphere and there were people there who had suffered what I had who I could talk to about it.

"There weren't many members though so within four weeks I became chairman of the group!

"I live on my own so it was nice to talk to somebody and share my experience," said Danny, who lives on Newshaw Lane.

Heartlink is affiliated to the British Heart Foundation.

They meet in the Festival Hall, Denton, on the second and fourth Monday of the month.

All members have had heart surgery or problems or are carers of cardiac patients.

"Tameside and Glossop is one of the worst areas for heart disease in the country.

"The group is so useful because sometimes people want to speak to others who've been through what they're going through.

"We have married people who come to the group and sometimes a husband will be worried about something but won't want to worry his wife by telling her so rather than keep it in he can tell one of the group.

"We can't give medical advice but we can talk about our experiences and support each other.

"Young and elderly sufferers come to the meetings and there is always somebody who's been through what you're going through whether it's the operation or the way you're feeling."

The group do a variety of activities from relaxation and exercise to trips out.

They also have regular talks by nurses and doctors.

Anybody requiring more information can phone Danny on Glossop 862741.