Q.

When I left hospital I felt depressed now I feel to have lost confidence, is this common?

A.

Yes this is quite a common reaction and our members find talking to others, outside the medical sector, is helpful to enable them to understand and get through this feeling.

Q.

I am on my own and have never been to Lindley Liberal Club can you help me?

A.

Please let any member of the committee know when you wish to attend a meeting and we will arrange for someone to meet you on arrival.

Q.

Before my heart attack I enjoyed a drink – what now?

A.

As you are no doubt on medication you must speak with your doctor or consultant who will advise. A glass of red wine is usually acceptable. Lindley Liberal Club staff are quite used to our members drinking soft drinks during our socials.

Q.

How much will Heartline membership cost me?

A.

Membership is £5 per person per calendar year (or pro rata). The raffle at the socials is £1.00 per 5 tickets and the cost of any drinks you may have. The Club prices are very reasonable.

Q.

How do I know what exercise I can do?

A.

Heartline instructors are all qualified to run sessions for cardiac patients.

Have you been to cardiac rehabilitation? If you have then you will have been shown the correct type of exercises to do. Only do low impact activities, avoid exercises which cause you to hold your hands above your head as this puts a strain and pressure on the heart.

Q.

Can I attend an exercise class as a guest before deciding to join?

A.

Yes - an existing member will be happy to talk through any concerns you may have.

Q.

Do I have to have special clothes or equipment to attend classes?

A.

For exercise classes we recommend you wear something loose fitting and comfortable. Trainers or soft shoes are quite acceptable.

Q.

Is my spouse/partner allowed to join Heartline, even if they don’t have a heart problem?

A.

Yes, we encourage partners to become members and join our activities as your heart condition can affect your domestic/social life.

Q.

What support does Heartline give to members?

A.

We meet once a month and usually have a guest speaker, we try to vary the range of topics, but always allow plenty of time for social interaction with other members and partners. This is in addition to the exercise classes, walking events, bowling and dancing classes. We are also setting up a Buddy scheme for those who would like some telephone support.

Q.

I used to enjoy DIY will I ever be able to undertake this sort of activity again?

A.

Many members do regain the confidence and motivation to resume many of their previous interests if you are concerned you should discuss this with your GP or Consultant. Every case is slightly different.

Q.

Can I still drive following surgery?

A.

This is often more to do with confidence than the effect of the surgery, once again you should discuss this with your GP or Consultant. If you are not happy to drive then don’t be pushed into it – stress is not good for the heart.

Q.

How is Heartline funded?

A.

Historically we received grants but these are becoming harder to obtain so we are now trying to generate sufficient funds to support our own activities via membership subscriptions. Sometimes members will have a fundraising event and give a donation or sadly we receive donations in lieu of flowers upon the death of a member. We welcome new ideas to make us more self reliant.

Q.

Could I join the committee after joining Heartline?

A.

We welcome new members to the committee and encourage participation of membership in major decision making,