St Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and it’s a date that we in the Irish Heart Foundation take very seriously.
Red roses, chocolates, an oversized card? These are not the things we think about on 14th February. Instead, we think about all those hearts that have stopped, the broken hearts left behind, and the hearts that struggle every day to keep beating.
Hearts like Ciaran Byrne’s, who last year completed the Irish Heart Foundation’s Love Run despite having had three heart attacks by the age of 30.
Or hearts like Owen O Brien’s, who was diagnosed with a heart condition at just 40 years of age and received free counselling and support from the Irish Heart Foundation.
In 2020 a total of 8,744 lives were lost to heart disease and stroke. Of these, 4,612 were men and 4,132 were women.
“On Valentine’s Weekend, across Ireland, people can help support people living with heart conditions and stroke and those they love by taking part in the Love Run.”
Hundreds of thousands of people in Ireland are living with heart disease and the disabling impacts of stroke and the Irish Heart Foundation is there for each and every one.
Judith Gilsenan, Commercial Director with the Irish Heart Foundation, said thousands of people are diagnosed with a heart condition every year and need support and information to navigate this.
“Overnight, their lives change and they can feel vulnerable and isolated. Thanks to the support of the public, we can be there to help them through this time with our Nurse Support Line and Support Groups,” she said.
“On Valentine’s Weekend, across Ireland, people can help support people living with heart conditions and stroke and those they love by taking part in the Love Run.”
Register to take part in the Love Run for €25 here and you will receive a training plan, tips, and an Irish Heart Foundation beanie. You can walk or run the 5km or even break it up and do it over a few days.
If you are unable to take part, you can make a donation (personal or corporate) here
Since 1966 the Irish Heart Foundation has been caring for hearts in Ireland. With your help this Valentine’s Weekend, we can continue to be there for each and every one.
Thank you
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