Dana Edkins from Newport has been crowned a ‘Heart Hero’ by the British Heart Foundation (BHF) following her fundraising challenge to travel as far as possible in 4 days without any food or money.
40-year-old Dana decided to set herself the challenge after finding out that she has a rare genetic heart condition. As the condition attacks the heart muscle, Dana is in the stages of heart failure, for which there is no cure, and in time she will need a heart transplant and palliative care.
Dana’s fundraising, which has also included a head shave and a school reunion, has raised over £10,000 for BHF to help fund research into heart failure.
Much to her surprise, Dana was announced as the worthy winner of the special award at a ceremony in London last Friday. The event was held at the James Black Centre where BHF carry out some of their research.
“I was very emotional to say the least and overwhelmed by everyone’s comments and kind words when I received the award.
“Thank you to friends, family, businesses and strangers alike who have helped me along the way. I’m truly blessed and could not have done it without their kindness and generosity”.
