Family voices fears over hospital services in Leeds

The family of a girl whose life was saved by specialist heart surgeons say they are worried that in future their services will not be available in Leeds.

Ruby Hemsley, aged 23 months, has a rare heart condition involving a narrowing of the aorta and pulmonary stenosis which restricts blood flow. She has had three successful operations at Leeds General Infirmary (LGI) and may need more surgery in the future, however it is not clear where that treatment would take place.

Some children’s heart surgery units could stop performing operations as there is support from within the NHS for fewer, bigger centres where surgeons would do more procedures to maintain their skills.

Ruby’s mum Danielle says she is concerned about the possibility of specialist care ending in Leeds. She said: “It was hard enough for us when she was in the LGI, it would be very difficult if we had to travel, you have got enough on your mind.”

Any changes to children’s heart surgery units will be announced in the autumn.