Sunshine, Smiles and Shared Stories at our 2026 Annual Garden Party

Now in its ninth year, the event welcomed around 65 patients, family members, carers, bereaved relatives, trustees and committee members for an afternoon of friendship, conversation and support.

While the food was excellent, the weather couldn't have been better, and the ice creams proved especially popular as temperatures climbed, the real purpose of the day was much deeper.

As a charity founded by patients, for patients, we know that recovery from an aortic dissection doesn't end when someone leaves hospital. Living with the condition – or supporting someone who has experienced it – can often feel isolating. Bringing people together who truly understand that journey remains one of the most valuable things we do.

Throughout the afternoon, conversations flowed between survivors sharing their experiences of recovery, families exchanging advice and reassurance, and bereaved relatives finding comfort through the understanding of others who have faced similar loss. While much of our work naturally focuses on patients, we recognise that partners, parents, children and carers often experience significant trauma too, and opportunities to connect with others who understand can be invaluable.

Our younger visitors were equally well looked after, making the most of the garden, outdoor toys and sprinkler as the summer sunshine continued throughout the afternoon, while everyone enjoyed a beautiful cake kindly brought by one of the newest members of our community.

Events like these remind us that Aortic Dissection Awareness is about far more than raising awareness of a rare condition. It is about building a compassionate community where nobody has to face the journey alone.

A huge thank you to Anne and everyone who helped organise another wonderful day, and to every member of our community who travelled to Warwick to make it such a special occasion.

We look forward to welcoming everyone again next year.