Last year, I went through heart surgery at just 16 years old. It was a really difficult time, and I also faced complications after the surgery, which meant I spent longer on the ward than I expected.

One of the hardest parts wasn’t just what I was going through myself, but being so aware of everyone around me. Even while I was in pain, I could see other children on the ward—some only babies who had already spent most of their lives there, and others my age or younger who had been there for so long.

That’s something that has really stayed with me.

Now that I’m doing better, I want to give something back.

I’m raising money to support children going through heart surgery, just like I did. My goal is to raise £500, and all funds will be donated to Calli’s Heart Campaign, which goes directly to Ward 23 at the Freeman’s — the paediatric heart unit that looked after me.

Even during the hardest moments, Calli’s Heart Campaign was always there to lift our spirits. I remember spending Valentine’s Day on the ward, and despite everything I was going through, they made it special by organising a lovely day and giving gifts to me and all the other children there.

They do this throughout the year—bringing joy to children on the ward during holidays like Easter, Halloween, Christmas, and even on their birthdays.

Those small moments of kindness mean more than you can imagine when you’re in hospital.

Every donation, no matter how small, will help bring comfort, happiness, and a sense of normality to children during one of the hardest times in their lives.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story and for any support you can give

— Mya

Calli’s Heart Campaign