Rebecca raises £1,000 for Children's Heartbeat Trust

What makes this even more impressive is that the nine-year-old herself suffers from a serious heart condition which requires constant monitoring and medication.

When Rebecca was 22 months old she became very sick and was diagnosed with a heart viral infection.

After prompt and essential treatment at the Clark Clinic, Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, Rebecca pulled through and although she is still dependent on medication her progress to date has been fantastic.

As a thank you for all the help and support she and her family have received from Clark Clinic over the years Rebecca decided to raise funds for the Children's Heartbeat Trust and help other families and children with heart disease.

Rebecca said: "I feel I have come so far.

"I have now completed my certificate for 100m swimming, and aim for many more sporting achievements.

"The reason I am here and can do this is thanks to the great work of the consultants and nurses at Clark Clinic. My consultant, Dr Sands says that my level of fitness now matches any child of the same age as me."

Sarah Quinlan, Executive Officer with Children's Heartbeat Trust, said: "Rebecca is a very brave young girl, who has shown great courage and resilience in overcoming her heart problems and becoming such a strong swimmer.

"We are very thankful for her wonderful fundraising efforts which will help us continue to provide emotional and practical support to parents and families of children with heart disease."

She added: "Children's Heartbeat Trust works closely with Clark Clinic to help fund top quality medical equipment and initiatives, ensuring that children with heart disease in Northern Ireland receive the best care and treatment possible."

The Children's Heartbeat Trust also offers local support for families and parents, to which end a new parent-led group has recently been set up in the Coleraine area.

The Coleraine group organiser, Ann-Marie McGaughey said: "It is vitally important that parents and families of children with heart disease are aware of the support and services available to them, and this group will provide an important local network, sharing advice and information, or simply the chance to have a cup of coffee and a chat."

If you would like further information about the Children's Heartbeat Trust and the local support group please contact Sarah Quinlan on 07584 164 815 or email [email protected].