Jim McClelland and Reg Wilkinson were honoured with Life Membership awards at Heart Health NSW’s annual general meeting.

Hearty congrats to Reg and Jim on Life Membership honour

Aug 06, 2024

The Mid North Coast Local Health District has congratulated Heart Health NSW for its successful annual general meeting on Wednesday and the invaluable voluntary work carried out by its members at Port Macquarie Base Hospital (PMBH) with cardiac patients.

The meeting, held in windy conditions on the foreshore at Lake Cathie, saw more than 50 dedicated volunteers come together to celebrate a year of growth and achievement.

During the annual meeting, two Life Memberships – the organisation’s highest honour – were awarded to Jim McClellan and Reg Wilkinson, recognising their exceptional service and commitment.

Jim McClellan’s Journey: Ten years ago, Jim McClellan experienced a heart event while on holiday at Tweed Heads and was treated at John Flynn Hospital. On returning to Port Macquarie, he and his wife Val joined PMBH’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Program, where Cardiac Rehabilitation Coordinator Jannie Denyer encouraged Jim to volunteer and start a walking group. Beginning with just eight members, the group now averages 35 walkers, even in rainy weather. Jim’s dedication includes sending more than 50 emails weekly to keep the group active. His personal experience with heart disease drives his passion for supporting others through their recovery.

Reg Wilkinson’s Dedication: For almost 20 years, Reg Wilkinson has been a cornerstone of what is now Heart Health NSW, providing unwavering support to those facing heart-related challenges. He visits patients in the acute phase post-cardiac treatment two to three times a week and participates in the Cardiac Rehabilitation unit once a week. Heart Health NSW also offers a carers group, thanks to volunteers like Reg. Having survived a heart attack before the age of 40 and undergoing a triple bypass, Reg expressed immense gratitude for his recovery and the support he received. His motivation to give back is fuelled by a desire to help others navigate their own recovery journeys.

Heart Health NSW has had a remarkable year, with increasing membership and growing popularity of its walking groups, as well as supporting new cardiac patients through a buddy program at PMBH.

Members re-elected Doug Short as President, Reg Wilkinson as Secretary and Ruth Comish as Treasurer.

MNCLHD Corporate Relations Manager Sharon Fuller said the contributions of Heart Health NSW volunteers were deeply appreciated by the hospital and the wider community.

“The Mid North Coast Local Health District is proud to support and acknowledge the outstanding contributions of Heart Health NSW volunteers,” Ms Fuller said.

“Their dedication significantly enhances the wellbeing of cardiac patients at PMBH and strengthens the community’s heart health support network.

For more photos from the AGM, please click on the image below and scroll through the library.