From Open-Heart Surgery to Mount Kenya
27 June 2025
Patrick's Story
It’s incredible to look back and see how far I’ve come, and it’s no exaggeration to say I owe my life to the NHS and the extraordinary cardiac team at St George’s Hospital.
In many ways, I didn’t look like someone about to face a life-threatening diagnosis. I was active, playing tennis and padel twice a week, going to the gym, and swimming regularly. But in October 2023, something felt off. I started experiencing breathlessness during activities that I could normally do with ease.
My GP didn’t initially see cause for concern. On the outside, I looked fit and healthy. But I knew my body. I pushed for further tests, and that was the start of a chain of events that would ultimately save my life.
The tests revealed a constricted artery (this is where your arteries become narrow or blocked and prevent blood flow). At this point,
I was immediately transferred to St George’s, no time to stop at home. My wife quickly packed a few things and met me before the ambulance took me away.
It was surreal and frightening. All I could do was place my trust in the hands of the cardiac team at St George’s Hospital.
My surgery
On 14th June 2024, I was told that open-heart surgery, a double or possibly triple bypass, was the best option. The operation was scheduled for three days later.
I remember the whirlwind of emotions. My wife contacted our family and friends and they each came to see me. I couldn’t help but feel it might be the last time I saw them. It was all incredibly emotional and surreal.
I hadn’t met my surgeon until the morning of the operation. Mr Aziz Momin was direct and reassuring. He calmly answered my many questions (yes, I had a notebook full!) and reassured me with his confidence and clarity. He even promised to do what he could to avoid taking veins from my legs and arms, understanding how important sports are to me. My wife and I both felt safe in his care. True to his word, he called her personally after the surgery to let her know how it had gone. We are both eternally grateful to him.
Recovery
The first few days’ post-surgery were tough. The ICU team and ward staff at St George’s were phenomenal, resilient, kind, and patient. I probably did more than my fair share of moaning! But each small step, my first walk, my first shave was a sign of recovery.
With the help of St George’s excellent aftercare resources, the NHS Cardiac Rehabilitation Programme, and some fantastic cardiac personal trainers, I slowly rebuilt my strength and confidence. Now, I’m back to my old routine: walking every day, playing tennis and padel, hitting the gym, swimming, and even cleaning the car and gardening again. Life has returned to normal and then some.
My thank you to St George’s
In September 2025, I will be trekking Mount Kenya with my three sons. It’s our way of celebrating life, strength, and second chances and most importantly, it’s our way of giving back. We’re raising money for St George’s Hospital Charity to support the team that gave me a new lease of life.
Every step we take up that mountain will be a tribute to the doctors, nurses, and staff who cared for me, to the resilience of the human spirit, and to the power of trust, family, and hope.
Thank you, St George’s. This climb is for you.
Patrick
