Teenager plans year of fundraising for hospital unit that saved her life

Teenager plans year of fundraising for hospital unit that saved her life

Lily Lambotte (14) has already raised more than £300 for the Southampton children’s cardiac unit with a cake sale at her school and through donations. She intends to carry out further fundraising throughout the year for the cause.

The Beaulieu student suffered heart failure when she was just five days old and was rushed from Jersey to Southampton. Her parents were told she may not survive.

Lily Lambotte receiving care as a baby (27009669)

‘My heart rate went up to 250bpm and my blood pressure was also extremely high,’ she said. ‘I had a coarctation, which is a narrowing of the aorta, the main artery in the heart, and two holes in my heart – ASD and VSD. I had major heart surgery at two weeks old, and again at two months old. Following surgery I had weekly check-ups and medication to control my blood pressure. I am due to go to Southampton at half-term for an MRI scan to check the scar tissue in my heart is growing correctly.’

She added: ‘I could not be more thankful for the amazing SCBU nurses, Robin Ward, and staff at Southampton children’s cardiac unit – E1 Ward. I would not be alive if it wasn’t for them, and I would love to raise money for Southampton, which will hopefully go towards saving other babies who are suffering with similar heart conditions.’

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