SA member celebrates 25 years since life-saving heart and lung transplant
published on 11 Jun 2026
A remarkable milestone of survival, gratitude and hope will be celebrated this June as a Salvation Army member in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire marks 25 years since receiving a life-saving heart and lung transplant with a special evening of music, community and thanksgiving.
Natasha's "Heart & Lungs" Transplant 25th Anniversary Celebration will take place on Saturday 27 June at 7pm at The Salvation Army Hall, Salem Lane, Wellingborough.
The celebration concert will feature performances from the renowned Ynysowen Male Choir from Aberfan & District Choir, with special guest soprano Emma Davis, a singer-songwriter and former member and soloist with The Salvation Army's internationally acclaimed International Staff Songsters. The evening will be compered by Martin Heath from BBC Radio Northampton.
For Natasha, who has been a member of The Salvation Army all her life, the event represents far more than a musical celebration. It is an opportunity to reflect on a journey that has spanned a quarter of a century since undergoing the complex transplant operation that transformed her future.
What once seemed uncertain became possible thanks to the skill, dedication, and compassion of the medical teams at Harefield Hospital. Twenty-five years on, Natasha continues to celebrate the gift of life while raising awareness of the life-changing impact of organ donation and specialist transplant care.
Guests can expect an uplifting evening of powerful choral music, inspiring stories and heartfelt moments as performers and supporters come together to honour a milestone that many once thought impossible.
"Reaching 25 years since my transplant is something I will never take for granted. Every day since my operation has been a gift, and this celebration is my way of saying thank you to the incredible staff at Harefield Hospital, to my family and friends who have supported me, and to everyone who has helped make this journey possible. I hope the evening not only raises vital funds but also inspires people to appreciate the precious gift of life and the difference organ donation can make."
Funds raised from the concert will support the work of Harefield Hospital's transplant unit, helping it continue providing world-class care to patients facing some of the most challenging health circumstances imaginable.
Alison Chapman, church leader at The Salvation Army in Wellingborough said: "Natasha's story is one of extraordinary courage, resilience and gratitude. This concert is a celebration of life, community and the incredible work carried out every day by transplant specialists. We are delighted to bring together such talented performers for what promises to be a memorable evening while supporting a cause that means so much to Natasha and many others.
“I have had the privilege of knowing Natasha for many years, and throughout that time she has been an inspiration to everyone who meets her. She is part of our church songsters, and a collector at Christmas for the Christmas Present Appeal. We look forward to her cakes in our weekly coffee morning. Her story and her life continue to be a blessing to everyone.”
Following the concert, the evening will also provide an opportunity for guests to mingle with performers and supporters, to share stories and celebrate Natasha’s remarkable journey together in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Tickets cost £10 and are available by contacting Graham Rogers on 07722 892502 or by email at g.rogers31@virginmedia.com.
The event will take place at The Salvation Army Hall, Salem Lane, Wellingborough, NN8 4JT, with parking available at Jackson's Lane Car Park.
Event Details
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Natasha's "Heart & Lungs" transplant 25th anniversary celebration
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When: Saturday 27 June, 7pm
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Where: The Salvation Army Hall, Salem Lane, Wellingborough, NN8 4JT
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Tickets: £10
The Salvation Army in Wellingborough offers a variety of community activities throughout the week, providing drop-in spaces for people living with homelessness, a safe, welcoming space for families, young people, and individuals of all ages. For more information on activities from The Salvation Army in Wellingborough, follow on Facebook
