Heart disease support group set up

11:48am Wednesday 6th June 2007

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Two women with the heart muscle disease cardiomyopathy are setting up a support group for affected families across Cornwall.

Emma Kemp, 33, from Chellew Road, Truro, and Sue Chapple, 49, from Canonstown, Hayle are holding the first meeting on Saturday, June 23, 2pm, at Chacewater Village Hall near Truro.

Emma, a mother of one, and Sue, an administrative assistant with Cornwall County Council, both have dilated cardiomyopathy, which causes the heart the enlarge and pump less strongly. But the support group will be for people suffering from all types of cardiomyopathy, which is usually inherited.

The condition affects around one in 500 people of all ages, including babies, but often goes undiagnosed. It is the biggest medical cause of sudden death in people under 35 but if found can be treated with drugs and surgery, with most sufferers going on to lead long and full lives.

The support group has the backing of the Cardiomyopathy Association, a charity that offers information and support to affected families. Among the speakers at the first meeting will be the association's chief executive and medical director Robert Hall.

Emma, who became so ill in 2001 she was told she might need a heart transplant, and Sue, who was diagnosed last summer, said talking to others affected by the condition had given them a real boost and made them realise they were not alone.

For more information about the new support group call Emma on 01872 260836 or the Cardiomyopathy Association on freephone 0800 0181 024.

For more information about cardiomyopathy, call the freephone number or see the website www.cardiomyopathy.org