With the festive season fast approaching, Jane Bartlett is preparing to celebrate her grandson’s second Christmas. The grandson she wouldn’t have met, if it weren’t for her heart transplant.
November marks 22 years since Jane underwent life-saving transplant surgery, after being diagnosed with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy at the age of 44.
Since then, Jane has embraced every moment of her second chance at life. Now 65, she spends her time keeping fit, giving back through volunteering, and preparing to lead a team of cyclists in this year’s third annual Capital Limited Breaths and Beats charity ride.
The event raises much-needed funds for the Heart and Lung Research Institute WA (HLRI WA), but Jane says her motivation is also to highlight the importance of continued research and development, pointing to how much has changed since she underwent her transplant.
“I have seen firsthand the technology and research-based developments that have taken place since I underwent my transplant, and I’m continually blown away by the medical advancements we’re seeing.”
“But there’s always more that can be done and I hope that by continuing to improve research around keeping organs alive outside the body for longer, we can improve the viability of transplants and overcome some of the challenges around distance and time.”
The Heart and Lung Research Institute WA was formally established in 2017 and is the only medical research institute in Western Australia performing heart and lunch transplant research.
Jane says it’s a noble endeavour, and one that deserves more attention.
“Western Australia has such a wealth of expertise in this area and for all the changes I’ve seen since having my transplant almost 22 years ago, imagine where we might be in another 20 years.”
“I’ve been able to watch my children grow up, get married and now get to enjoy being a grandmother. That wouldn’t have been possible if it weren’t for ongoing research.”
Jane will lead the Muzz Buzz team in the upcoming ride, and Executive Chairman Warren Reynolds says it’s a privilege to once again support the event.
“We’re proud to get behind this incredible cause for another year and continue to highlight the important work of the Heart and Lung Research Institute.”
“Having Jane lead our team is a wonderful inspiration – as are all the transplant recipients involved in the ride – and I echo her thoughts around research in this very important area.”
“The more we learn and advance, the more lives we can save.”
This year’s Capital Limited Breaths and Beats ride for research is taking place on Sunday November 9, with riders taking on a 35km or 60km route along the South Perth foreshore, with the aim of raising $1 million.
More details can be found at www.breathsandbeatsride.org.au/
