I hadn't a clue what caused the problem with my own heart.  My mother, uncle and brother died of heart disease so I was at risk - but that family link never crossed my mind - big mistake.

In the end I was lucky - although I found out my arteries were 70% blocked- quite without knowing why I'd done the right things.  I'd given up the fags and was a fit bloke who ate well.  I reckon that saved my life.

When I was told by the doctors I needed immediate open heart surgery my legs went to jelly.  I was depressed for months after my operation.  I was weepy and felt very vulnerable and needed the help of my family and friends more than ever.

After my bypass operation I tried to live my life as if nothing had ever happened.  All my bad habits went out the window.

I was wrong - your heart problem could return at any time.