Paralympic swimmer, David Hill will be inspiring young people with heart conditions at the Brighthearts Forum ‘Wonderful Weekender’ on the 12^th and 13^th October, 2013.

David was GB’s youngest Paralympian athlete at the Athens Games in 2004. Aged just 15, he made the final of the 100m Backstroke event. David born with no left forearm and by the age of three David was earning swimming badges. He entered his first competition at the age of 8 and has won over 300 medals in both able-bodied and disability swimming competitions.

The athlete has been confirmed to attend a weekend event bringing together young people from all around the UK. Run by the Children’s Heart Federation with the Somerville Foundation, the free weekend will include interactive activities providing invaluable support and information for young people living with heart conditions. The event will involve an overnight stay in a London hotel and social evening of shopping and bowling.

Sadly many young people can be put off from sport because of their heart conditions and are often not given enough support to be active. The charities are hoping that the sporting champion’s appearance will encourage more young people to become involved with and enjoy sport.

David Hill says: “The Children’s Heart Federation do a vast and broad amount of work all throughout the UK and I’m privileged to make a difference at just one of their events. I hope my small contribution by speaking and spending the day with some affected young people can leave a big and positive lasting effect on their lives. Whether its motivation to keep going, to gain a bit of belief, build their determination or be inspired, I’m looking forward to making everyone a little bit better. I’ll be showing the kids what sport has done for me and the fact that anyone can make it possible and take part, but most of all have fun in the process!”

Victoria Goldsmith, who co-runs the BrightHearts Forum, says: “It will be an absolute honour to have such a successful Paralympian speaking at our Brighthearts event next month. David Hill’s accomplishments in sport from such a young age will truly inspire the young people with heart conditions attending”.

To find out more information about the BrightHearts Forum, please visit www.chfed.org.uk/brighthearts.