The Deadly Heart Trek in QLD has launched! This significant occasion took place in Cairns, to mark the start of the Deadly Heart Trek to end rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in Queensland. We are focused on working with others to end RHD and increasing awareness of this devastating yet preventable disease.

Under the majestic ‘Knowledge Tree’, a beautiful Welcome to Country ceremony from Minjil began the proceedings, followed by stories from incredibly brave families including Lynette Bullio whose son Jalil was diagnosed with RHD at just seven years of age. Speakers also included First Nations cultural advisor Vicki Wade, Cardiologists Dr Ben Reeves, Dr Bo Remenyi and Dr Rob Justo, and First Nations community lead, Geoffrey ‘Jacko’ Angeles.

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The two Trek delivery teams of experienced doctors, health workers, and First Nations leaders are now up in the Cape and Torres region undertaking an active listening and action tour. They have been invited into communities to work with them, to provide education and heart screenings for children to diagnose and treat this silent and totally preventable disease

Thank you to everyone who helped us get here: Take Heart Project, RHDAustralia, One Disease, HeartKids, Queensland Health, Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation, NT Cardiac, Heart Foundation Australia, Orange Sky, VioletCo and The Snow Foundation. #endrhd