AUSTRALIA’s youngest heart transplant recipient will speak in Murrurundi at a Health and Well-being Expo this Saturday August 12.
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At just 14 years old, Fiona Coote suffered complications from viral-induced tonsillitis which left her heart facing failure.
In April 1984 she became the nation’s youngest heart transplant recipient when Dr Vincent Chang operated at St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney.
Her body rejected the first heart, and she went in for another transplant in 1986.
Since the two transplants Ms Coote has gone on to live a fulfilling life that has been dedicated to serving the community.
She was awarded the Order of Australia in 1999 and also received dual Paul Harris Fellowships for her community service and raising public awareness of heart disease.
Event Details
Ms Coote will visit Murrurundi to speak at the Rotary Club on Saturday August 12 along with Jordan Fallon, a noted speaker on youth suicide and depression.
The Rotary Club’s Health and Well-being Expo will kick off from 10am at the Murrurundi Bowling Club, with guest speakers at 12am, followed by a catered meal.
With around 70 guests expected, event organiser Col Stanford said the day will be well worth attending and will be aimed at educating members of the community.
“We have invited all pensioners to a free luncheon where they can receive information on looking after their health and having a more enjoyable life,” Mr Stanford said.
“We have tried to cover all aspects of health needs, with representatives from the Cancer Council, Local Ambulance, SES, Eye Care, Hearing Australia, Dental Care, Podiatry, Pathology and Family Drug Support attending to provide support.”
All proceedings from the event will go to worthwhile causes.
For more information call Robin Stanford on 6546 6482 or 043 8078 563.