Inspirational children from across the UK honoured at Young Heart Hero Awards

Inspirational children from across the UK were celebrated at our 4th Young Heart Hero Awards.

Held at the Paradox Museum in Knightsbridge, London, the special event brought together children and families affected by cardiovascular disease for a fun-packed day.

Our Young Heart Hero Awards honour children affected by cardiovascular diseases who have demonstrated exceptional bravery in the face of life-changing challenges. From those born with congenital heart conditions and babies who underwent open-heart surgery just days after birth, to young heart transplant recipients. Despite the difficulties they've faced, every young heart hero has shown remarkable courage, determination and resilience.

Our new ambassadors the O-Twins

Hosted by our new ambassadors, Dr Dan and Dr Raph Olaiya, known to many as the O-Twins from the BAFTA award-winning CBBC programme Operation Ouch!, the day was filled with exciting activities and celebrations.

The children and their families explored the museum's immersive exhibits, took part in science experiments, enjoyed a treasure hunt, had their faces painted, watched a magic show and met a balloon artist.

Dr Dan, an anaesthesia and intensive care doctor, said: "Cardiovascular disease can affect anyone, at any age. The courage shown by the young people here today is truly inspiring, and BHF-funded research offers them hope for better treatments and brighter futures."

His brother, Dr Raph, added:

"It's been wonderful to see these remarkable children enjoying such a fun-filled day with their families. Watching them celebrate together and make new friends has been truly heartwarming.

"The BHF's work to fund lifesaving research is incredibly important to us. We are proud to support the charity and thrilled to begin our new roles as BHF Ambassadors."

“He’s told everyone at school that he’s a Heart Hero”

Among those honoured was six-year-old Freddie Wiles from Preston. Freddie was diagnosed with restrictive cardiomyopathy at just 14-months-old and received a heart transplant when he was three-years-old.

His mum, Harriet, said: "when Freddie became ill, our lives changed overnight. Despite everything he has been through, he has faced every challenge with incredible resilience and a smile. Seeing him having so much fun today and be celebrated was truly amazing. He’s told everyone at school that he’s a Heart Hero."

Freddie said: “I really enjoyed getting my award. I loved the party, and I really liked the Zero Gravity room.”

Eight-year-old Leo Nicholls from Bristol was also recognised with an award. Leo underwent open-heart surgery as a newborn and has supported us for several years by sharing his story and taking part in campaigns, including our Red Bench campaign earlier this year.

His mum, Aimee, said "Leo has been incredibly proud to represent the British Heart Foundation, a charity that will always hold a special place in our hearts. He had an amazing time at the Young Heart Hero Awards and was thrilled to receive his medal. He's already looking forward to taking it into school to show all of his friends."

“Our Young Heart Heroes represent the very best of us”

British Heart Foundation’s Teresa Hicks, Director of Fun for the Young Heart Hero Awards, said: “The Young Heart Hero Awards are always a highlight of our year, bringing together remarkable young people from across the UK. Our Young Heart Heroes represent the very best of us. We’ve had a wonderful time today celebrating these amazing children and their families”.

To nominate your own Young Heart Hero for 2027 visit: www.bhf.org.uk/youngheartheroes