Young cardiac patients come together for weekend residential at Southampton activity centre

Young people living with heart conditions have enjoyed a weekend of adventure, friendship and new experiences at Calshot Activity Centre, supported by Southampton-based cardiac charity Heartbeat.

The residential brought together young people aged 15 to 24 from across the region, giving them the opportunity to meet others who understand the challenges of living with a heart condition, build confidence and enjoy a break from the demands of everyday life.

Organised by the cardiac PEEER (Patient, Empowerment, Employability, self-Esteem, Resilience) service at University Hospital Southampton (UHS), which is funded by Heartbeat, the weekend included paddleboarding, cooking sessions, games and arts and crafts.

Supported by cardiac youth workers Becky Cutler and Kim Cooke, the group had the chance to try new activities, develop independence and form friendships in a supportive environment. The weekend concluded with an awards ceremony, where each young person received an individual award recognising their unique qualities, contributions and achievements.

Becky Cutler said: “Being diagnosed with a heart condition at a young age can be incredibly isolating. While friends are focused on school, work, university and socialising, many young cardiac patients are navigating hospital appointments, treatments and an uncertain future.

“The Calshot residential was much more than a weekend away. It was an opportunity for this inspiring group to discover new interests, develop independence and, most importantly, have fun with others who are facing similar struggles. It was wonderful to see everyone enjoying themselves and making friends.”

For young people living with cardiac conditions, meeting others with similar experiences can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide reassurance that they are not alone.

Matthew Cornick, Heartbeat's Events and Corporate Fundraiser, understands first-hand the challenges of living with a heart condition. Born with a leaking aortic valve, he has undergone 13 open-heart surgeries and has been involved with Heartbeat since he was 15.

Matthew said: “Growing up with a cardiac condition can sometimes make you feel different from your friends, so opportunities like this residential are incredibly valuable. They give young people the chance to meet others in similar situations, build friendships and enjoy experiences they might not otherwise have. It's about helping them realise they're not alone and that a heart condition doesn't have to define what they can achieve.”

This was a sentiment echoed by Mark Ind, CEO of Heartbeat, who said: “The PEEER service supports young people with the psychological and emotional challenges of living with a heart condition. This residential is an important opportunity for them to connect with others who understand their experiences, build friendships and enjoy new activities in a supportive environment.

“We are proud to fund this service and would like to thank Becky, Kim and everyone who helped make the weekend such a memorable experience for the young people involved.”