MONGOLIA on horseback was the ‘incredible’ challenge taken on by two intrepid fund-raisers.
Liz Jackson from Warwick knew she wanted to support those affected by Cardiomyopathy after her sister-in-law nearly died from the heart condition.
Tina Amiss suffered a cardiac arrest in 1994 when she was just 31-years-old. It is believed to be the main cause of sudden death in people under the age of 35.
She was watching television when she suffered the attack and had to be resuscitated by her husband.
Tina was then diagnosed with Cardiomyopathy, a genetic heart disease which causes the heart muscles to become enlarged.
And to support those affected, 55-year-old mum-of-two Tina, and 50-year-old Liz, jumped in the saddle and trekked through the Mongolian wilderness.
They spent five days on horseback, sleeping under the stars with no toilet or shower facilities.
But the pair say it was worth it as they have so far raised £2,000 for charity Cardiomyopathy UK.
Liz, who organises the Warwick Christmas Lunch for those who have nowhere else to go, said: “Cardiomyopathy mostly goes unheard of. Occasionally it makes the news when a high-profile individual is diagnosed – as was the case when Fabrice Muamba collapsed on the football pitch while playing for Bolton Wanderers.
“Fabrice and Tina were both lucky enough to survive their cardiac arrests. However, much more can be done to help make people aware of the condition and that’s why I wanted to support the incredible work done by Cardiomyopathy UK.”
It is not the first time Tina and Liz have taken on a fund-raising challenge together.
In 2014 they went on a five day 200km trip through the Arctic Circle with just four husky dogs for company, raising thousands for the charity.
Tina said: “Mongolia made our dog sled challenge seem quite tame. The The experience did not disappoint. It was what we hoped for and so much more – an incredible once in a lifetime experience and most definitely a challenge.
“There was some breathtaking scenery but some scary times too, like when we would have to cross rivers with strong currents.
“I have left a bit of my heart in Mongolia.”
Visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/tina-amiss1 to donate or visit www.cardiomyopathy.org to find out more about the charity.
