Heartbeat Cardiac Youth: Big Plans for 2026!

2026 has started with an incredible burst of energy for our Cardiac Youth Service! From exciting adventures to inspiring conversations, our young cardiac patients are already making this year one to remember.

We began the year with a Residential Adventure at Ferny Croft, where participants took part in a range of confidence-building and team-building activities. From navigating challenges together to celebrating personal achievements, the weekend provided an unforgettable opportunity for our young people to grow, bond, and develop skills that extend far beyond the fun and games.

Alongside these in-person experiences, we’ve also relaunched our Online Youth Group. This safe, supportive virtual space allows young people living with cardiac conditions to connect with peers, share experiences, and offer each other encouragement — no matter where they are. It’s already proving to be a vibrant community where friendships are formed and confidence is nurtured.

The excitement continued on 16th February, as our young cardiac patients, alongside Youth Workers Becky and Kim, came together to celebrate Congenital Heart Disease Day. The group embraced their creative sides, producing artwork that reflected their experiences and their hopes for the future. Adding to the inspiration of the day, they had the opportunity to speak with Matthew, Heartbeat’s Events and Corporate Fundraiser. Matthew, who is also a cardiac patient, shared his personal journey and how his heart condition has motivated him to pursue remarkable achievements in life. Hearing his story left a lasting impression on the group, highlighting how resilience, determination, and support can empower young people to overcome challenges.

The start of 2026 has already been filled with laughter, creativity, and inspiration for our Cardiac Youth Service, and we can’t wait to see what the rest of the year holds. With more activities, opportunities to connect, and moments to celebrate, our young cardiac patients continue to show us the true meaning of courage and community.

Looking Ahead: Exciting Activities and Opportunities for Our Young Cardiac Patients

The energy and inspiration don’t stop with the early 2026 activities, there’s a host of exciting experiences planned for the months ahead!

Sports and Adventure Experiences - From a football session at Hamble FC to a golf range experience funded by Heartbeat, our young cardiac patients will have plenty of opportunities to try new activities and build confidence in a safe, supportive environment. Thanks to Rotary support, we’re also offering free sailing sessions at Testwood Lakes, weather permitting, kicking off in the warmer months. These activities are carefully tailored so participants can enjoy sports and adventures while respecting their individual needs, showing them that a heart condition doesn’t limit their potential.

Group Cooking Sessions at Heartbeat House - We’re also bringing people together through food! Our group cooking sessions at Heartbeat House will provide a relaxed and fun environment for young people to learn new skills, share laughter, and connect over delicious meals, because nothing brings people closer than good food and great company.

Expanding Support - Our commitment to supporting young cardiac patients continues to grow. Becky and Kim are exploring ways to include young people with non-congenital conditions, such as those with pacemakers or heart rhythm issues, so that everyone has the chance to be part of our vibrant community. No one should feel left out, and we’re dedicated to creating spaces where all young people with cardiac conditions can thrive.

Heart & Stroll Fundraising - Looking further ahead, our youth patients will be taking part in Heart & Stroll, a 5K challenge designed to raise vital funds for Heartbeat. In addition to taking on the challenge, they’ll be running not one, BUT TWO stalls to engage the community and share their stories. Plans are also underway for the Summer Residential, promising another round of unforgettable memories, friendship, and adventure for our young participants.

With such a full calendar of activities, workshops, and opportunities, 2026 is shaping up to be an extraordinary year for our Cardiac Youth Service. From personal achievements and shared experiences to laughter, learning, and inspiration, our young cardiac patients continue to show remarkable courage, creativity, and resilience, reminding us all of what’s possible when support, community, and heart come together.