David Lloyd Colchester

MACS conditions are a group of rare, irreversible congenital eye anomalies; • Microphthalmia (small eyes), • Anophthalmia (no eyes) • Coloboma (cleft in the eye structure). Every year in the UK, 114 babies are born with one or more MACS condition. They cause lifelong visual impairment, visible difference, additional health needs and significant emotional and social challenges. Negative reactions can profoundly affect confidence, self esteem and mental health. Parents often feel frightened, isolated and unsure how to navigate complex medical, educational and social systems. MACS is the UK’s only charity supporting people affected by these conditions. We support 3,600 people across the UK, (1,200 with a MACS condition) - offering emotional, practical and financial support, peer connection, regional activities and confidence building experiences. Our mission is to ensure people with MACS feel connected, supported and able to reach their potential to confidently lead a fulfilling life.

Our aim is to save lives, reduce or prevent disability, or suffering from critical illness and injury, by delivering a first class pre-hospital emergency medical service to the people of Essex, Hertfordshire and surrounding areas.

The British Heart Foundation is the leading funder of cardiovascular research in the country. With over 7,000,000 people living with heart disease in the country today, our aim is to reduce the impact of CVD as well as funding expansive research to help this and future generations.