Woman's Cream Tea Collapse Uncovers Hidden Heart Condition
Diana Warren, a 55-year-old resident of Colchester, Essex, experienced a life-altering moment during a routine bike ride in June 2022. While enjoying a cream tea at a cafe with her wife, Lisa, she suddenly collapsed face-first into her scone, an incident that would ultimately reveal a serious, undiagnosed heart defect she had lived with for over five decades.
From Fainting Spell to Shocking Diagnosis
Initially attributing the collapse to menopause or a simple faint, Ms Warren was persuaded by her wife to visit a doctor a week later. Her GP suspected a heart issue and referred her to Colchester Hospital's cardiology department. Further tests, including an electrocardiogram, diagnosed her with an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) – a hole in her heart the size of a two-pence piece.
"It was a bit of a shock, because I was just like: 'How can it be anything to do with my heart when I've been pretty active?'" Ms Warren told PA Real Life. She described herself and her wife as active individuals who cycle and walk regularly, making the diagnosis all the more surprising.
Understanding the Condition and Treatment Journey
According to the NHS, an ASD is a hole between the heart's atria, allowing blood to flow abnormally and leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, fainting, and irregular heartbeats. If untreated, it can cause pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, or stroke. The British Heart Foundation notes that treatment typically involves a metal mesh plug inserted via keyhole surgery.
Ms Warren was referred to St Bartholomew's Hospital in London, where three attempts at keyhole surgery failed. She ultimately underwent open heart surgery in April 2024, after a six-month wait, and had a pacemaker fitted. "St Bart's were absolutely amazing the whole way through," she praised, highlighting the support for both her and her wife during the process.
Road to Recovery and Charity Challenge
Now recovered and living a normal life with annual check-ups, Ms Warren is channeling her experience into a positive cause. She is preparing for the British Heart Foundation's London to Brighton Bike Ride on Sunday, June 21, 2026 – a 54-mile route from Clapham Common to Brighton Seafront that she has long dreamed of completing.
Training since January, she has gradually increased her mileage by 10 miles each month and follows exercises recommended by the British Heart Foundation to build strength. "My squats are coming up really good!" she joked. Accompanied by her brother Gary and sister-in-law Teresa, she aims to fundraise for the charity, emphasizing the importance of giving back.
"To give back, however you can – those of us who have had a heart condition and are well enough to be able to do something to give back – I think is important," Ms Warren said. She hopes to support others facing similar health uncertainties and raise awareness about heart conditions.
Inspiring Others Through Resilience
Ms Warren's story underscores the unpredictability of health and the value of medical vigilance. Her journey from a dramatic collapse to a major charity ride serves as an inspiration, demonstrating how personal challenges can transform into opportunities for advocacy and community support. The British Heart Foundation continues to play a crucial role in funding research and aiding those affected by heart conditions across the UK.
