Ashley Farrell, a 21-year-old osteopathic student and dedicated runner, was diagnosed with a ventricular septal defect (VSD) at just six weeks old. This heart condition required her to undergo open-heart surgery in Auckland when she was 12 weeks old.
Since then, Ashley has made a remarkable recovery, living with only mild mitral valve regurgitation, which remains asymptomatic and stable. Her ‘zipper scar’ serves as a reminder of her early health challenges, but it hasn’t held her back.
Growing up surrounded by sport, particularly athletics, Ashley was inspired by her father, Shaun Farrell, who holds New Zealand’s 400m record. Following in his footsteps, she developed a love for running, something she feels fortunate to continue thanks to the support of Heart Kids NZ.
In her teenage years, Ashley represented Canterbury in sprints, competing at the Down Under event in Australia and placing in South Island and national competitions. While her university studies have temporarily paused her sprinting career, Ashley’s passion for running endures. She is set to take on new challenges, including running the New York City Marathon on November 3, 2024.
In August she completed a half marathon at Mount Maunganui. Through these events, Ashley is fundraising for Heart Kids NZ to support their work with heart kids and their families, acknowledging the organisation’s vital role in helping those facing similar challenges.
“I will be fundraising for Heart Kids NZ, this is for the incredible work they do for people like myself, and their families. But also, for their courageous efforts to support heart kids, whenever they need.”
You can check out Ashley’s fundraising efforts here.
