Paediatric Cardiac Research
Chloe is 4 years old and was born with Tetralogy of Fallott, a
congenital heart defect. She had her first cardiac catheter
procedure when she was just days old and her first major operation
on her heart when she was 2 months old. Karen Sheehan is a cardiac
research sister here at the Trust and approached Chloe's parents
Beth and Chris about Chloe being involved in a research study. She
said: "We invite anyone who is eligible for a research study to be
involved. Usually a research nurse will approach the family and
give them information about the current studies that are taking
place. There is no pressure on any of the parents to involve their
child in a trial but Beth and Chris have been so helpful, now they
ask me what studies we've got on and whether Chloe can be a part of
them, it's great! Building relationships with families is
key. It's important that they have a good experience of
research whether they take part or not."
Chloe is currently involved in her 6th study,
IMPACT which is looking into what affect the complications post
cardiac surgery can have on the family at home. Chloe hasn't
suffered any complications after her surgery but her data is still
so important to research findings. Dad Chris said: "When we were
asked to involve Chloe in a research study we just thought, why
not. We have continued to participate in the studies because
wanted to give something back to the staff that have treated and
cared for Chloe. We hope that they can use what they learn and put
it towards progressing treatment in the future for other
children."
Beth and Chris intend for Chloe to continue her involvement in
research for as long as she is returning to hospital, although that
is becoming less and less. Mum Beth said: "Looking at Chloe now you
wouldn't have any idea what she's been through. She's had multiple
major operations on her heart but she has so much energy, she's a
whirlwind!
