A new support group for heart failure patients starts its first meeting next Tuesday in Sion Mills. Heart Failure Warriors local chapter targets people in the Strabane, Derry and Omagh area. The event takes place at Sion Mills Presbyterian Hall at 6.30pm on March 24.

Ciara McCay from Strabane received a heart failure diagnosis three years ago. Her smartwatch detected symptoms including swollen ankles, shortness of breath and extreme fatigue. She contacted her GP and underwent a heart scan plus other tests over two weeks.

McCay needed hospital visits in the first three months after diagnosis and spent much time resting. She received support from a dedicated heart failure nurse. Last year she had heart surgery but continues working and parenting.

The group offers education, resources, peer support and community. The launch includes a Q&A with Western Trust Consultant Cardiologist Dr Adam Canning. Heart Failure Nurse Specialist Denise Whittle will attend. Group chair Nicole McKelvie will speak about her experience.

Meetings will occur monthly in different venues across the Western Trust area. Contact details include heartfailurewarriorsni.com, info@heartfailurewarriorsni.com, Facebook or 07355 695734.