Ian’s heart story

Ian went to the doctor believing he was suffering from bronchitis, an illness that many butchers suffer from due to the frequent change of temperature moving in and out of cold rooms. He was shocked to discover he had a heart murmur.

Ian’s aortic valve was 72% blocked, so he was immediately fitted with a mechanical valve through open-heart surgery. 13 years later, in September 2018, his mechanical valve failed him and was replaced with a swine valve. It was another open-heart surgery Ian had to endure. The second time around, his recovery was not as easy.

Instead of being in hospital for seven days, he was kept there for 24. Confused, Ian asked “why?” The nurse told him that he had attempted to attack a security guard and on a separate occasion he had tried to escape the hospital; another time he was screaming. Ian experienced delirium… he wished he knew this was a possibility.
I was never told about this and the impact it could have on me.
Ian is passionate about the work the Heart Foundation does to combat Australia’s biggest killer, heart disease - he has since become an avid supporter.

Ian is particularly interested in the research the Heart Foundation is funding to understand and eradicate heart disease, and to educate Australians about the impact this disease can have on our lives.

Inspired by the work the Heart Foundation does, Ian was certain supporting us into our next 60 years would be his legacy. Ian “did not hesitate” to leave 100% of his estate to the Heart Foundation. He hopes that by leaving his entire estate to the Heart Foundation he “may help someone in need.” Ian’s generosity will impact the lives of Australians to come, as one in two of our research programs are funded by gifts in Wills.

Ian’s one piece of advice

Ian found solace in researching his heart disease and connecting with those who share the same condition: “I read a lot and especially about my heart disease. I am also on various websites on Facebook that a lot of people around the world who have a similar heart disease to me and the encouragement from people on these sites is awesome.”

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