Challenging claims of ‘voice of heart parents’ on Leeds unit

IN response to Cecilia Yardley’s column (Yorkshire Post, May 12), I read anything issued from the Children’s Heart Federation (CHF) with a mixture of curious, resentful interest – purely from the point of view that they have gone from the “national voice of heart parents” to a defensive, non-impartial organisation who have betrayed the very people they were in place to serve. My son Joel, aged three, is facing three or four major operations.

The article did not fail to disappoint – more wanton discredit of the Leeds children’s heart unit, its unfalteringly loyal surgeons and staff members and the huge number of parents who are fighting so valiantly for the voices of truth to be heard and acknowledged.

To be clear – none of our parents or professionals are stating that the potential closure of any of the units is down to financial cuts. Many of us believe in the basic idea of fewer units, more experienced surgeons and staff, better surgical outcomes for our children – all children – who frankly deserve the very best they can.

Leeds isn’t “local” for all of us – it is a good 45 minutes away in flowing traffic and longer at peak times.

Heart parents have a resilience that few understand. There is no logic in these recommendations and we will continue to show you the true value of what Leeds can offer and why it should remain open.

The CHF ought to realise that for every derogatory comment, insult, put down or defensive statement they issue – we will be coming right back at them with the hard facts and evidence of their failings.

If they feel so strongly about why we are all so misguided in all this, then let’s stop the volleying back and forth and meet head-on – I know plenty of heart parents who would happily join me in a meeting with the CHF to be “convinced” of their argument.