Mel was diagnosed with peripartum cardiomyopathy after giving birth to her second child in 2017. The condition – which has no known cause – occurs during the last part of, or in the first few months after, pregnancy. It damages the heart muscle, leaving it unable to pump effectively.

Since then, Mel has continued her recovery and manages her condition with medication, however, she may need a pacemaker in the future. As a result of her experience, Mel signed up for British Heart Foundation (BHF) London to Brighton bike ride along with colleagues from work. However, after the event was cancelled due to the coronavirus crisis, she took on the event virtually in her kitchen instead. 

Mel’s family helped her during the 54 mile ride by bringing drinks, snacks, cheering, showing pictures of landmarks on the route – even setting up a games console for her to take her mind off the ride. And she did brilliantly, completing in 5 hours and raising a superb £1300. Mel still plans to take on the real L2B next year, but for now, cycling the event in her kitchen was the next best thing!