Walking with Heart – Amy and Angus's Mile-a-Day Journey for Children's Heartbeat Trust

Two years ago, Amy Woodall’s world changed forever. Her beautiful boy Angus arrived, bringing unimaginable joy, but also a profound challenge.

"What should have been the happiest time quickly became the most challenging for us," explained Amy.

"At just 10 weeks old, Angus was diagnosed with a VSD (Ventricular Septal Defect) - a hole in the heart. "

Those early months were a whirlwind of long hospital stays, tests, medications, and even an NG feeding tube, as little Angus struggled to gain the strength needed for surgery.

“He was so tiny and fragile,” Amy remembers. "At 6 months old and finally 5.3kg, our little warrior Angus underwent open heart surgery in Dublin, an experience no parent ever wants for their child, but one that saved his life. 

“Handing your baby over for major surgery is every parent’s worst nightmare,” says Amy. “But Angus was so brave. Watching him come through that, still managing to smile, taught me what real strength is.”

Today, Angus is a cheeky, chatty, and energetic two-year-old with a love for swimming, dancing, and playing outside.

“He’s full of personality and has a sweet tooth for French fancies,” Amy laughs. “But his favourite meal is tuna and sweetcorn pasta, he is a real little character.”

Through it all of the trials and tribulations this little family went through, the Children's Heartbeat Trust has been a crucial support.

Through it all, the Children's Heartbeat Trust has been a crucial support.

“They were there from the very beginning,” Amy shares. “From practical help like accommodation at the Heartbeat facility above the Clarke Clinic, to emotional support, and even little comforts like welcome bags with toiletries and snacks – they thought of everything.

“They also helped us when we had to travel to Dublin for Angus’s surgery,” she continued. “They offered guidance through the toughest decisions and connected us with other heart families who truly understood what we were going through. That kind of support means everything when you’re facing the unimaginable.”

“They even gave Angus a little Children’s Heartbeat Trust bear, which came on every step of his journey,” Amy adds. “That bear was a symbol of hope for us and a reminder that we weren’t alone. That kind of support means everything when you’re facing the unimaginable.”

“They make sure no family has to walk this path alone. They offer hope, community, and strength when it’s needed most,” Amy says with gratitude.

“We’ll be forever grateful to the Children’s Heartbeat Trust team and his fantastic surgeon, Dr McGuiness, and the incredible nurses who cared for Angus.”

Now, it’s Amy and Angus’s turn to give back, so they are participating in the 'A Mile a Day in May' challenge.

“Every mile we walk is for Angus and every heart warrior like him,” Amy says proudly. “Any support for this amazing charity would be so greatly appreciated – it truly makes a world of difference, and this is our way of saying thank you.” 

If you would like to support Angus on his Mile A Day challenge, you can Donate Here