Bexley girl’s charity plan to help other heart patients like herself

A nine-year-old from Erith who has twice undergone open heart surgery wants to repay the hospital which saved her by taking part in a charity bike ride. 

Amaris Raji aims to raise money for the Evelina Children’s Heart Organisation (ECHO) by completing a half-marathon on her bike. 

She is also currently working on her ‘charities and influencers’ badges for Brownies, so her plan ties in nicely with that ambition.

Amaris, who attends St Joseph’s RC Primary in Old Road, Crayford, has chosen this charity because she has congenital heart defects which required two operations at Evelina Children’s Hospital, and really wants to support a charity that helps children like her. 

ECHO supports families at every stage of a child’s journey, from the moment of diagnosis through childhood, teenage years and during the transition to adult services.

The organisation provides practical and emotional support, and welcomes families into a community of shared experience and understanding at times when there is little other help available. 

Amaris’s first open heart surgery was at eight months old, and her second one was completed just before she turned seven during Covid.  

Mum Belinda said: “Amaris has always shown bravery despite her condition and even though she can get sad due to physical restrictions she still perseveres.”

Amaris said: “Even though I get very tired when I do sporty things, I’m going to try my very best to push myself and I can do this half marathon.” 

After completing a test run, Amaris rode 1.39km in 15 minutes. She plans to complete the half marathon in stages within 20 days and complete the challenge before the end of January. 

Amaris set her fundraising target as £150 but she has exceeded this and is currently close to £400 – she would really love to raise as much money as possible. 

If you would like to donate to her cause and show support for her efforts, please do so using the Just Giving link https://www.justgiving.com/page/amarisbikeride2023 

 Pictured top: Amaris on her bike and raring to go (Picture: Belinda Raji)