Charity-funded heart pump saves life of Yorkshire’s first patient to receive pioneering device
The family of the first patient in Yorkshire to successfully receive a new miniature heart pump have thanked cardiologists at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust after a specialised device was used to save their dad’s life.
John Barrass, from Chesterfield, was left critically ill after a cardiac arrest severely weakened his heart. He required urgent treatment to unblock his arteries, but extensive calcification and poor heart function meant his chance of surviving the procedure was less than 50%.
Thanks to supporters of Sheffield Hospitals Charity, over £247,000 has been given to fund 15 Impella heart pumps. Doctors are now able to use this new life-saving option for patients facing the highest risks. The miniature device sits inside the heart and temporarily takes over its pumping function, maintaining blood flow to vital organs while complex procedures are carried out.
During John’s operation, his blood pressure dropped dangerously low and he was minutes away from another cardiac arrest. The Impella heart pump was activated, stabilising him and allowing surgeons to safely continue. John went on to have four stents fitted and is now recovering well.
John’s daughter, Kirsty Lowden, said:
“His heart blood pressure went and his heart stopped, and the device had to kick in for about five minutes. So, without that, he wouldn't be here now. We’re really, grateful. That device saved my dad’s life, no question.”
The procedure was led by Consultant Cardiologist Dr Aetesam Rahman, supported by a specialist team at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
Dr Rahman said:
“The pump was able to deliver an additional 3.5 litres of blood a minute – which was in addition to what John’s heart was already able to pump bringing it to near-normal levels during the procedure. This enabled us to successfully perform the procedure safely and in a controlled manner.
"Most patients undergoing heart procedures, such as coronary angioplasty or stents will not need one of these devices but for patients like John undergoing high-risk procedures, research shows these pumps increase survival by more than 70% up to six months after surgery.
"We are enormously grateful to Sheffield Hospitals Charity for enabling us to deliver this life-saving programme to the immediate benefit of patients.”
The 15 charity-funded pumps are expected to benefit around one patient each month, including those referred from Chesterfield, Doncaster and Barnsley, as well as patients experiencing cardiogenic shock, acute cardiac distress, or undergoing complex heart procedures. Research also shows the devices can reduce time spent in intensive care and improve recovery and quality of life.
Shasta Ashraf, Director of Grants at Sheffield Hospitals Charity, said:
“Sheffield Hospitals Charity is committed to funding projects that have an immediate, life-saving benefit to patients. This is a powerful example of the impact our supporters make every day. We are truly excited to be supporting this project, which will enable our cardiologists to save even more lives and provide vital evidence to the growing body of data showing us that this intervention can make a genuine difference in helping patients. Supporting patient-centred experiences is also one of our four priority areas where we invest to have the greatest impact for the people of Sheffield.”
Listen to Dr Rahman on BBC Sounds at 1:07 here.
Published: Monday 2nd of February 2026