Maria Gratton-Heatley, 26, is a staff nurse in the cardiology department of Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital. Maria will be flying to Miami, Florida, where she will be taking part in a charity skydive as a way of raising money for the British Heart Foundation.

In January this year, Maria set herself a New Year’s goal of raising money for the British Heart Foundation. As a cardiology nurse, Maria comes into contact with people who suffer from heart-related issues on a daily basis, but she was particularly affected when she heard her best friend’s father suddenly passed away from a heart condition last year, at the age of 51. Maria’s mother was also diagnosed with a left heart block a few years ago, and she attends cardiac rehabilitation on a regular basis.

Maria Gratton–Heatley, said, “This year I set myself the goal of raising awareness of heart conditions as well as money for research, which would be donated to the British Heart Foundation. My best friend’s father’s passing was a complete shock to us all, and is that main reason why I set myself this challenge. Although in my day job I help to treat heart conditions, I wanted to do more, which is why I decided to raise money for charity.

“My partner signed me up for a skydive when I planned to meet him in Miami to enjoy a holiday together, as he has been working abroad for a while. Although I’m a little nervous I know what a good opportunity this is to raise money for a charity very close to my heart. “

Maria adds, “I’ve currently raised around £1,000, but I would really like to raise £1,500 for the British Heart Foundation. “

David McNair, hospital director, says, “We’re very proud of Maria and wish her the best of luck next week.”