A 28-year-old charity, based at Ealing Hospital, that supports residents across the Borough with heart related issues is back in action and holding regular monthly meetings post pandemic.
Having had to stop meeting in person due to Covid, the 200 member strong Heartlink is now holding regular meetings every month and is encouraging more Ealing residents to get involved.
The group was originally set up in 1994 with the support of Ealing cardiologist Jaspal Kooner who saw the the need of a support network outside hospital.
One person who got involved and is now vice chairman of the group is Mohinder Kalsi.
Having previously been told his chest pains were linked to indigestion, one day, Mohinder, a retired engineer, was rushed to hospital with a suspected heart attack.
His family, father, grandfather and two uncles also had attacks and now it had happened to him despite maintaining a good diet and exercise.
He said: “It knocks you out of your stride”.
During his recovery process, Mohinder discovered Heartlink which has helped him.
He said: “I can’t fault the medical staff. They have been so caring and kind but they don’t have the personal experience of living with a heart condition and the physical and mental challenges that can bring. Heartlink makes you realise you aren’t alone. I really enjoy volunteering and helping people realise that life goes on.”
Earlier this year, newly elected Mayor of Ealing, Councillor Mohinder Midha made Heartlink here chosen charity.
She said: “This is a charity close to my heart, because South Asians have a high risk for heart disease and diabetes. I hope that I can help support the great work that they do for the community, especially the South Asian people.”
Heartlink meet on the first Thursday of every month at 6.30pm in the Post Graduate Lecture Room, Level Three, Ealing Hospital.
Click here to find out more about Heartlink or call 07518 569380
