A STROUD couple are set to undertake a challenge to raise money for a charity which offered them support during a 'traumatic time'. 

Daughter Martha Mai, who is now three years of age, has already overcome many obstacles such as heart surgery for a complex heart condition when she was just seven months old.

Naomi Hughes and Rhys Coates are climbing the 02 to raise money for heart heroes after the support given to them and their daughter Martha-Mai. 

Naomi said: "We are raising money for Heart Heroes, a charity that provides support and advice for families with children who have a life long heart condition.

Stroud News and Journal: Stroud couple Naomi Hughes and Rhys Coates to climb the O2 arena in London for a special cause"They provide inclusive projects, subsidised day trips and events, mental health & wellbeing support, in hospital support as well as monthly hubs and bereavement support.

"When our daughter was seven months old, she had life saving heart surgery at Bristol Children's hospital.

"Her surgery took seven+ hours and was very complicated as her heart condition is very rare.

"Thankfully she made a full recovery after a few complications.

"Heart heroes offered much needed support during a traumatic time, and it was during covid so it was myself and Martha in hospital alone as we weren't allowed visitors in the ward.

"The charity is a much needed lifeline for many children and their families, and the events and parties give the children a chance to have fun with other children and families so they can forget their diagnosis just for a short while.

"We may never recover mentally from the trauma of our daughter's surgery, but we can access support and guidance any time from the charity founders and other families which is such a relief, which is why we are doing this climb.

"We had an initial aim of £300 but would love to raise £400 for the charity.

"The climb will take place at the beginning of March and take around one hour to climb up. "

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