CHEST, Heart & Stroke ambassador Erin Houston wants anyone with concerns about their health to reach out for help. 

Erin from Newbuildings in Derry first heard about the charity, based on the Dublin Road in Belfast, after she was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) two years ago.

The 24-year-old classroom assistant and psychology student’s heart rate was high, and low, and she was fainting a lot so knew she needed support. 

“Two years ago I was driving to uni in Coleraine and took unwell,” Erin said. “I went to the doctor because I thought I was just really tired. 

“I was out of breath, high heart rate when I stood up, and fainting. I went to different cardiologists and then I was diagnosed with POTS. 

“The general advice was drink water, and watch how much salt you take.

“You have to fight a bit to get heard and advocate for yourself. Chest, Heart & Stroke motivated me to get the care I needed.”

It was Erin’s mum who found out about the support services available across the North through Chest, Heart & Stroke.

“Karen came out to see me, and she invited me then to do the Heart Strong programme, which I did twice. I was the youngest in my group on both occasions.  

“I am telling my story to raise awareness which leads to other young people reaching out to ask for help.”

She added: “POTS is not visible. People don’t know I have this. There can sometimes be an expectation because you are young that you can do all the things other young people can do so it’s hard to keep up. 

“When I did the Heart Strong programme they gave us loads of advice about sleeping, eating, and safe exercise which was a big thing for me because I used to dance and that all had to stop when I was diagnosed.”

Erin said her physical and mental health has been boosted after learning what her “new normal” is. 

“When I heard Chest, Heart & Stroke I thought that is for people who have had a heart attack or stroke. I didn’t think I would be able to use their services but they are there to help with anything they can which made me want to share their story.

“I have built my strength back up. I have check-ups with cardiologists every few months and do my own thing.

“There can be overlap in heart conditions with symptoms so it’s important to get them checked out.

“If you manage POTS well I live pretty much a normal life except having to keep an eye on what I am doing.”

Chest, Heart & Stroke is marking its 80th anniversary this year. 

“If you are not sure about something just ask them,” Erin said. 

For more information visit https://nichs.org.uk