I support the British Heart Foundation (BHF). They have funded research projects I have worked on, and, locally, they provide vital equipment in our local hospitals. Their organisational size and the research areas they fund mean that they are an extremely powerful charity, with a high public profile. Being involved in small, local charities I know how hard it is to engage with donors, to get people to part with their pounds for a charitable cause. So I'm not surprised by the increase in ever more 'in your face' fundraising. It just doesn't sit well with me.
And so it was, that when I watched the latest BHF appeal on inherited heart conditions on TV, I felt deeply disappointed. Not because their appeal isn't worthy. Of course it is. It is simply misleading, causes worry, and doesn't say how to get help if you are worried. It's all about getting the donation.
Your doctor will tell you that these heart conditions are complex. There are several causes, more than one gene, and certainly more than one inherited condition. I would urge you to visit the C-R-Y website for a simple outline of sudden cardiac death, one of the conditions specifically referred to in the BHF appeal. A simple ECG screening test can detect if there is a problem.
Yes, do donate to research. Yes, the BHF funds world-class research and researchers are breaking new ground all the time.
But please, also understand what you can do for yourself and your family NOW, TODAY. Be informed. Look after your heart.