Al's angina

Al Sloman, a rehabilitation worker, is partially blind and deaf. He was out cycling when he started getting angina pains.

Al didn't know what the pains were, so kept working on his fitness, thinking that might be the cause. But instead, the pains only got worse.

Getting back on his bike

Al says he had no reason to think he had heart disease as he doesn’t drink or smoke and he's always been active.

He says: "I've done the London to Paris bike ride, the BHF Bike Show ride from London to Birmingham, four marathons, 39 half marathons - the list goes on."

The BHF has been my friend on the end of the line, providing me with information and advice, as well as giving me and my family emotional support.

Since his treatment, Al enjoys running and cycling without any discomfort, and has changed his exercise regime to a lower intensity.

"The BHF has been my friend on the end of the phone line, providing me with information and advice, as well as giving me and my family emotional support."

Al was impressed by our informative website and its simple language. He's also signed up to our "excellent" Heart Matters programme and Heart Matters magazine.

He says: "Keep up the good work. People with any heart condition won't feel alone while the BHF is in existence. Picking up the phone was the best thing I could have done."