A man who has suffered from heart disease his whole life is encouraging the people of Harrow to get walking and keep fit.
Retired, Gary Glazerman, 59, from Harrow has undergone three open heart surgery operations, and is now supporting a British Heart Foundation (BHF) campaign encouraging local people to take on a walking challenge.
Mr Glazerman who walked non-stop for 26 hours on the BHF’s 100 kilometre London to Brighton Trek last year, is helping to dispel the myth that trekkers need to be an ‘iron man’ or ‘ iron woman’ to take on a BHF walking challenge.
Gary was born with congenital heart disease and underwent his first major operation at just five years old.
Ten years later, Mr Glazerman was back in surgery to have a hole in his heart repaired, the following 16 years, he was fit and well but was then diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, which is one of the most common forms of an abnormal heart rhythm and a major cause of stroke. He had six cardioversions and cardiac ablation therapy to help regulate his heart rhythm.
He said: “It was shortly after surgery that I read about the BHF’s London to Brighton Trek and knew that I had to give it a go. I have benefited from the BHF’s research and education, neither of which would be possible without folk who are willing to challenge themselves for the benefit of others. The BHF is a fantastic charity and I am convinced that it is thanks to the research they fund, that we have seen such improvements in treatment for heart patients”.
In March 2012 Mr Glazerman underwent his third open heart surgery, when he had a pulmonary valve replacement, which is responsible for regulating the flow of blood from the right ventricle to the lungs.
Head of Events at the BHF, Nancy Prior said: “Gary’s story dispels the myth that you have to be an athlete to take part in one of our fundraising treks and hikes. BHF challenges are no stroll in the park, but with the motivation, right training and the camaraderie experienced on the day, you’ll cross the finish line feeling amazing. Whatever BHF hike or trek you do, nine or 60 miles, you will be getting healthy and fit as well as raising much needed funds to fight heart disease.”
The BHF’s hike and trek series of events take place throughout the year across some of Britain’s most beautiful countryside. The challenges offer something for all walking abilities, from those new to walking to seasoned hikers looking for a new challenge. For more information about the hikes and treks, visit: www.bhf.org.uk/ukhikes.
