Grateful for help this vital work receives

Dec 18 2008 by Margaret Shaw, Hamilton Advertiser

I WOULD like to thank all the many volunteers and supporters in Lanarkshire who have contributed to the work of Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland in 2008.

Chest, heart and stroke illness can affect anyone. Thanks to advances in treatment, and changes in lifestyle, many more people survive heart attacks and strokes than in previous years – a real success story for Scotland’s health. However, this means that many more people, and their families, are living with the long-term impact of these conditions.

Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland are the only charity providing services throughout Scotland for people affected by chest, heart and stroke illness.

During 2008, we were able to help more than 10,000 people through advice and information, financial support and our wide range of community services, which we provide in communities throughout Lanarkshire.

None of this would be possible without the contribution of our volunteers. Their work is absolutely vital in operating our patient support groups and helping raise much-needed funds through our charity shops and other fund-raising activities.

We very much appreciate the commitment, enthusiasm and care they bring to the charity and to the community.

David H. Clark, chief executive, Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland.