Anne Cotton shares her Aortic Dissection story with Barts Theatres Team
Around 40–50 members of the Barts Theatres Team heard ADA UK & Ireland Chair Anne Cotton speak about her experience of aortic dissection, three surgeries and the impact on her family. The event was organised in collaboration with Terumo Aortic.
On 5 November, Anne Cotton, Chair of Aortic Dissection Awareness UK & Ireland, spoke at the Barts Theatres Team’s Audit Day at Barts Heart Centre, based at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London. Barts Heart Centre is one of the country’s leading cardiac centres.
Anne shared her patient journey, from diagnosis through three surgeries in 2015, 2018 and 2022. She spoke about the effect her experience had on her wider family, and the challenges of coping with a long stay in intensive care after surgery.
Around 40–50 people attended, including theatre nurses, support staff and junior staff from the cardiac centre. The audience asked Anne about mental health and coping mechanisms, the pressures on family members, and what it was like for her 22-year-old son to be her next of kin. She also discussed her medication: when she mentioned taking 11 medicines, it prompted a strong reaction in the room.
The event was organised as a collaboration between Terumo Aortic and Aortic Dissection Awareness UK & Ireland. Chris Theaker, Cardiothoracic Business Manager for London and the South East UK at Terumo Aortic, said:
“The Barts Healthcare Theatre Team welcomed Anne Cotton, Chair of Aortic Dissection Awareness UK & Ireland, who shared her lived experience as an aortic dissection survivor. Her honest and moving presentation provided valuable insights into the patient and family perspective, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.”
Anne brought THINK AORTA lanyards and patient guides for attendees, and spoke about the work of the patient charity.
Theatre Nurse Kate Honeyrose Sombilla, writing on behalf of the Barts Theatres Team, later sent Anne a message of thanks:
“Your story was truly moving, powerful, and inspiring. Thank you for allowing us to hear about your experiences and for giving us a glimpse into your journey as a patient. Your courage, strength, and positivity have touched us deeply and reminded us of the real people and lives behind the work we do every day.”
Kate added that hearing Anne’s story had given the team renewed motivation and a deeper sense of purpose in caring for patients and their families. The team described it as “an honour and a privilege” to hear her speak.
