A Harrogate-based group set up to support people diagnosed with heart failure has celebrated its first birthday.
The group – Harrogate Pumping Marvellous – started after Harrogate resident Mary Mann was diagnosed with heart failure.
Mrs Mann’s condition can be managed with medication which she says has given her ‘a new lease of life’.
Mrs Mann’s experience spurred her on to help others when she discovered the Pumping Marvellous charity and started a Harrogate branch.
The group, which meets on the last Friday of every month at the Harrogate Chocolate Factory Café, provides an opportunity for people living with heart failure to chat, discuss their problems and share their experiences.
On its first birthday meeting today the group was joined by Andrew Jones, Member of Parliament for Harrogate and Knaresborough.
Mr Jones heard spoke to patients and heard first-hand the issues they face.
Mr Jones said:
“Simply talking is sometimes an enormous tonic for people who share common experiences.
"That is why Pumping Marvellous is so important.
"It gives people a forum where they can learn from one another’s experiences and share how they have coped.
"And one year on it looks to be going strong. It was great to help them celebrate their birthday.”
Mary Mann added:
“Andrew learnt about how we cope with heart failure, our own strategies, medication and just the determination to keep going.
"Over a million people have a heart failure diagnosis in the UK but that isn’t the end of the story.
"There are many ways in which people can live well with the condition.
"Ensuring that happens is what Pumping Marvellous is all about.”

Harrogate friends to cycle 470 miles for brain tumour charity
Countdown legend brings 'Word Perfect' tour to Harrogate Theatre
Harrogate Town set for Boxing Day derby as fixtures revealed
Free Fuel Friday: Bilton woman is twelfth winner to claim full tank
New postcard celebrates Harrogate's bid to become UK's Town of Culture
Thieves attempt to break into garage at Harrogate home
Yorkshire Water urges customers to cut water use during heatwave
North Yorkshire ranks fifth highest in region for garden waste charges
Harrogate Rugby Club gears up for Beer Festival and Family Fun Day this Saturday
Harewood secures major National Lottery grant for landmark project
Harrogate's Duchy College recognised at Independent Schools of the Year Awards
Harrogate brewery's beer recognised among best in country
Rare chance for dogs to visit RHS Harlow Carr
Jespers of Harrogate to celebrate 125th anniversary
Harrogate Grammar praised in latest Ofsted inspection
Boroughbridge mum completes 100km challenge after daughter's life-saving heart surgery
Great Yorkshire Show almost sold out with two days at full capacity
Harrogate pupils' harvest helps feed homeless people
Spot the Board: Eagle-eyed residents scoop England shirts
Fleetwood Mac and Queen tributes to headline Harrogate Food & Drink Festival


