Jennifer Pittorino
Clare Delaney was only 23 years old when her world was flipped upside down at the tragic and sudden loss of her father Anthony.
Anthony Delaney was only 59 when he died of an unexpected heart attack at home in 2018.
Now during Heart Awareness Month, Clare hopes to bring awareness to heart disease.
Clare’s grandfather also passed away at the young age of 32, the autopsy report later revealed he had a genetic disposition which can lead to heart disease.
After suffering three losses in the family to heart failure, the Laverton woman is on a mission to take her heart health seriously and raise awareness on the topic while doing so.
“It was extremely traumatic and such a life changing experience to lose my dad at 23,” she said.
In her grief and discovering Heart Research Australia (HRA) and its campaigns, Clare took it upon herself to begin her own campaigning.
During the month of February, HRA dedicates the entire month to heart awareness, which Clare uses to her campaigning advantage.
“I host functions with family, friends, acquaintances and whomever I can,” she said. “I have my socials where I campaign and advocate for people to check their heart rate.
“This year I am hoping to do a campaign in November to get back into walking after giving birth to my daughter.
“I just hope to keep my dad’s legacy going while trying to help other young children who may have family members in this situation.”
Heart disease touches the lives of two in three Australians and stands as the leading cause of death, according to HRA chief executive Nicci Dent.
“Prioritising heart health is an investment in your future, both health-wise and financially,” she said.
According to HRA, there are many affordable ways to maintain heart health.
These include eating heart-healthy foods, staying active, managing stress and regular health check-ups.
“Heart research is so important and HRA does a fantastic job,” said Clare.
“The more research we can do will potentially help someone who has similar genetic dispositions in the future or might just inspire someone to check their heart.”
