On 7th July, we were proud to mark International Mechanical Circulatory Support Day with a special gathering celebrating the incredible community of people living with mechanical circulatory support, including those supported by LVADs.
Held at Sister and Soul Studios in Urmston, the day was planned by patients during our regular LVAD cafes at the hospital. It brought together patients, families, healthcare professionals and supporters for an opportunity to connect, share experiences and celebrate the strength and resilience of the LVAD community. We were delighted to be joined by Abbott, who generously sponsored the day and helped make the event possible. Their support enabled us to bring the community together in a relaxed and welcoming environment, creating an opportunity for people to meet others who understand the unique experiences that come with living with mechanical circulatory support.
One of the highlights of the day was a special baton-passing ceremony, created by our very own Jim Quick activity co-ordinator Amanda, to represent the international LVAD community.
The baton was passed from person to person as a symbol of the way the LVAD community connects people across countries and continents. It represents the sharing of experiences, knowledge, encouragement and hope - and the idea that each person has a part to play in supporting the next.
From patients and families to clinicians and organisations, the mechanical circulatory support community is truly international. The baton was a simple but powerful reminder that although people may be separated by distance, they are united by their experiences and their determination to make the most of life with mechanical circulatory support.
International Mechanical Circulatory Support Day gave us a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the people at the heart of this community. It was a day filled with conversation, connection and plenty of smiles - a chance to recognise the incredible journeys of those living with LVADs and the teams who support them.
We would like to say a huge thank you to Abbott for sponsoring the day, and to everyone who joined us and helped make it such a memorable occasion.
At New Start, we are proud to support patients and families living with serious heart and lung conditions, including those supported by LVADs. Events like this remind us of the importance of community and the difference that connection can make.
Here's to continuing to pass the baton - across our communities, across the UK and around the world.
Lisa Jessup
14th July 2026