A GOLDEN Jubilee National Hospital worker has been named a Heart Hero for her dedication to helping transplant patients.

Jane Lockhart, from Glasgow, picked up the award for Heart Health Professional at a ceremony at British Heart Foundation (BHF) Scotland’s Annual Supporter Conference at the University of Edinburgh.

The transplant co-ordinator at the Golden Jubilee provides round-the-clock support to seriously ill patients who need a new heart.

Due to the lack of available hearts it may be several months, or years, before a donor heart becomes available and Jane works closely with patients throughout their wait.

She is also responsible for giving the good news if an organ becomes available.

The award winner said: “I was delighted to accept the award on behalf of the whole transplant team.

“We’re a big group of people and we work hard to make a transplant happen.

“It’s lovely to be recognised in this way.”

BHF Scotland’s Heart Hero Awards recognise and celebrate the exceptional contribution of individuals and groups who are fighting for every heartbeat in Scotland, such as heart patients who are campaigning for better services, fundraisers who are raising vital money to fund life saving heart research, funded scientists and health professionals.

June Rogers, director of operations at the Golden Jubilee said: “This award is a testament to the work of our highly dedicated team who provide a life-changing, life-saving, service which has given patients all across Scotland a second chance at life.

“We’re honoured to be recognised for the service we provide by the supporters of British Heart Foundation Scotland.”

Around 120 delegates attended the annual BHF Scotland Supporter Day at the University of Edinburgh’s Medical School at Little France where they heard £35 million of medical research being funded by the BHF at the university and were able to see this breakthrough science up close during exclusive lab tours.

James Cant, director at BHF Scotland, said: “Jane is a great advocate for heart transplant work in Scotland and a wonderful example of the extraordinary contribution made by heart health professionals around the whole of Scotland.”

Meanwhile, a patient at the Golden Jubilee was also honoured for his dedication to raising awareness of heart conditions.

Ross Peters, from Dundee, was named a Heart Hero for his work.

Ross, a patient of the Scottish Advanced Heart Failure Service at the Golden Jubilee National Hospital, picked up the award in the inspiration category at the ceremony.

At the age of 21, after beginning to feel unwell while on holiday with friends, Ross’ condition rapidly deteriorated until he was admitted to hospital, struggling to breath.

Ross was diagnosed with an inherited heart condition and will now need a heart transplant.

Following his shock diagnosis, Ross has worked tirelessly to help raise awareness of the dangers of inherited conditions, particularly among younger people.

Ross, now 23, told the Post: “When I was first diagnosed I remember thinking that everyone in the literature and information I was given seemed to be older, but here I am at 21 with the same condition, waiting on a new heart.

“If my story can help someone else in the same situation by helping them gain a better understanding, or help them cope by realising they’re not alone then that’s what I want to do.

“I’m delighted for everyone who won at the BHF Scotland event and I’m so honoured to win such a special award.”