A miracle mum-of-three from Manchester, who survived four heart surgeries and numerous complications, has raised over £40,000 for the British Heart Foundation – including £20,000 in one night.
Michelle White was diagnosed with a faulty mitral valve at the age of 26 after she collapsed at work and credits the foundation for their vital research to combat heart disease.
The mother hosted the Tuxedo and Tiara Ball at Radisson Blu Manchester Airport for the second time running on Saturday June 1, raising £20,000 for life-saving regenerative heart research that could help people with heart failure.
Michelle said: “I used to think that heart disease was the sort of thing that happened to older, unfit men, and not to people like me.
“When they told me I needed to have open heart surgery, it felt like my world was crushed. I wanted to do everything I could to support this appeal and give hope to heart patients and their families.”
Inspired by her story of survival and her experiences as a young black woman suffering from heart disease, several public figures rallied to support Michelle’s event including Nedum Onouha of Queens Park Rangers, singer Pauline Henry from the Chimes, and Paralympian Lee Whiteley.
She also received support from members of the Manchester business community such as Richardson Sport, Manni Clothing, Little Black Dress Company, Sidnie Co Couture, Cliché Model Management and the Jimmy Choo Boutique at Trafford Centre.
Shirley McNally, BHF fundraising volunteer said: “Research is vital to winning the fight against heart disease and with support from volunteers and our local communities; we will continue to make a difference in the lives of heart patients.
“Michelle is a reminder that heart disease can affect anyone, young, old, male or female. It’s wonderful to see her inspire the Manchester community to come together to work towards finding a cure for heart failure.”
The 150 guests who attended the event at Radisson Blu enjoyed a three-course meal, goody bags from House of Frasier, a champagne reception, and a special performance by Pauline Henry of the Chimes.
A charity raffle and auction of luxury prizes was also held during the evening, and a portion of these proceeds was donated to purchase high-tech Genius™ 2 thermometers for the Christie NHS Foundation Trust.
For more information about how you can help support the British Heart Foundation’s Mending Broken Hearts Appeal, please contact Shirley McNally at [email protected]
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