Celebrating a remarkable milestone of nearly two decades, we shine a spotlight on one of our long-serving aftercare members, Laurence, whose commitment to his health and our centre is truly inspiring.

For 19 years, Laurence has been regularly attending sessions and reaping the benefits of his rehabilitation. 

The Beginning: A Wake-Up Call and a New Path

Laurence's journey with Heart Care began, as it does for many, following a major cardiac event. "A week of feeling 'off colour' transpired to be a heart attack," he recalls. Following a few days in hospital he was informed about Heart Care rehabilitation. Soon after, he received a letter from us that would change his life: an invitation to an interview with Heart Care before starting an exercise course. Though his initial assessment was interrupted by a bypass operation, three months later, Laurence was soon on the exercise track. 

Since that time, his exercise routine has been unwavering. "Excluding holidays, family, colds and Covid, I have attended a couple of times a week," this shows a sheer determination and testament to a successful long-term recovery.

The Power of Perseverance

What keeps Laurence coming back after all these years? The answers are honest and simple. When asked what he enjoys most about coming to Heart Care, he offers a classic reply: "The finish of each session." While said with a smile, it perfectly highlights the feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment after a vigorous workout.

When asked what benefit he gets, the answer is literally life-saving. "First and foremost, helping to stay alive," he states. Laurence has also noticed that while he can still catch common colds and bugs, his recovery is quicker and less debilitating compared to other people of a similar age or even younger. This speaks volumes about how regular exercise can help to strengthen the immune system.

Friendship and Community

Over 19 years, Laurence has certainly seen faces come and go, but the community aspect remains strong. "Yes," he confirms when asked about forming friendships. "Although unfortunately, some have passed away due to age and other health problems." It's a reminder of the strong community bond that Heart Care helps to gain through a network of support during Cardiac & Lung Rehabilitation.

Beyond the Gym: A Life of Support and Fundraising

Laurence was still working during the first few years of attending Heart Care, so it was a case of in and out briskly (After all, No Work = No Money = No eat) a habit he says he has not got out of fully. However, with his wife they attended several informative Heart Care talks on health and subjects of interest which took place at Walsall Cricket ground.

Because Heart Care is so professionally run and focused on delivering high-quality support, Laurence states that it’s not always immediately obvious that it operates as a charity. He imagines many people in the early stages may not fully realise the incredible charitable work behind the scenes."

Without the need to ‘rush’ off after retiring he says he took more notice of (surprisingly) the Notice Board. The annual walk stood out since walking always seemed so natural to him. Due to holidays it was not until 2015 that he had a go and made a small donation. "Walking always seemed so natural to me," he says. Though holidays delayed his participation, he finally joined in 2015 and made a small donation. Yet, the idea of asking others for sponsorship felt daunting. With gentle persuasion from his wife and encouragement from Heart Care fundraiser Rina, Laurence gave it a go — and was pleasantly surprised by the support he received. "I think people gave me money to get rid of me," he jokes. But the pride in having contributed was real.

Laurence also became a regular seller of raffle tickets, especially during the large Christmas Raffle before Covid, which featured generous prizes donated by local people and organisations. He found that selling tickets to friends and familiar faces came naturally, but he holds deep admiration for those who donate their time — especially the reception volunteers and others working behind the scenes.

A Sticky Situation and a Slice of Humour

One embarrassing event was a cake stall at Great Wyrley some years ago, before Covid. Cakes had been made by members, including some buns by his wife, to sell and 
raise money. Well Laurence decided he would make a malt loaf to sell. Having made a couple previously, they had been quite tasty he says. So a Malt Loaf of about 2lb was duly made which looked appetising (to him anyway). Coming to the end of the day on the stall it had not sold, perhaps it looked too big? Apparently, it was decided to cut it into smaller pieces and therein was the problem, it could not be cut! He admits the top was a little firm (knife could not cut through it). By turning it upside down, it was eventually cut into three pieces and each one was sold!

Since then he has made several Malt loaves for dance events and recently for our coffee afternoons. Being dark and sticky the only complaint I heard was ; ‘Not spread with butter’ (it was Flora on the slices). Words of Wisdom for New Members Laurence has a clear, no-nonsense message for anyone just starting a rehabilitation
programme at Heart Care: "After your assessment period, carry on attending and exercising. It’s not expensive; money is not good to you if you’re not fit enough to spend it. Definitely not of use if you’re dead."

His final piece of advice is perhaps the most powerful statement a long-term member can offer: "Just do it!"

Thank you, Laurence, for sharing your story — from brisk beginnings to heartfelt fundraising, from sticky Malt Loaves to sponsored walks. Your dedication, humour, and generosity continue to inspire us all. Here's to many more years of health, community, and well-being with Heart Care!