Stories

Rosemary Harris has more reason than most to volunteer as a collector for the Heart Foundation Big Heart Appeal in February 2023. Unfortunately, she knows first-hand what it’s like to suffer from a heart condition.

When Barry Eastwick started volunteering as a street collector for the Heart Foundation Big Heart Appeal, it was out of the goodness of his heart.

The Heart Foundation’s ongoing investment in overseas training for New Zealand cardiologists has saved tens of thousands of lives.

Almost ten years ago, Maggie had a heart attack completely out of the blue. As a fairly healthy and fit woman, she never saw it coming.

Clinical evidence has shown that heart conditions occur more often in those with certain mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety. However, the reason for this is not fully understood.

Research into more effective treatment for rural residents experiencing chest pain shows real benefits.

Among the research grants announced by the Heart Foundation on World Heart Day last month was further support for the game-changing pacemaker under development by researchers at the University of Auckland.

Specialist neonatal paediatrician Dr Sarah Harris will continue her research efforts to explore the relationship between premature birth and the heart health of mother and baby later in life, with funding awarded by the Heart Foundation.

Cardiac Cath Lab nurse, Maxine Rhodes, is set to undertake her Master of Nursing with Ara Institute of Canterbury, thanks to a Nurse Practitioner Training Fellowship awarded by the Heart Foundation.

Three New Zealand PhD students have been awarded Heart Foundation Postgraduate Scholarships to further their studies in heart disease.

This year’s Heart Foundation Māori Fellowship recipient, Anita Rangitutia (Ngāti Haua, Tainui) is seeking to understand how whānau, who have or are at high risk of heart disease, modify their behaviour when participating in a Kaupapa Māori clinical exercise programme. Her research will contribute to her doctoral studies at Massey University.

The Heart Foundation is celebrating 20 years of the Tohu Manawa Ora | Healthy Heart Award programme.