A jet-setting businessman, diagnosed with heart failure a year ago, has been able to continue his world travels – thanks to a text messaging system linking him to specialist support in Lanarkshire.

“Life, between family and work, is extremely busy – and I love every aspect of it,” explained Graham, 57, from Lanark who heads up an international IT trouble-shooting operation

“Last year, however, whilst working in England I felt like I was coming down with heavy cold, with symptoms including breathing difficulty.”

As symptoms worsened, and after hospital checks, it was discovered the root cause was a narrowing of the arteries to the heart.

“I was diagnosed as having heart failure – but when I learned I wasn’t going to die the next day I just wanted to crack on with things,” Graham continued.

Graham’s condition has been managed with medication. And, with the additional text messaging support, he’s been able to continue his intrepid lifestyle.

The text system is known as Florence and heart failure patients, who can be of any age over 16 years, are equipped and taught how to self-monitor details such as weight and blood pressure.

The patient then texts the details to an automated system which has been programmed by specialist nurses with specific health details.

Florence replies with advice and information like medication reminders,all based on the latest readings – and can indentify flare ups at the earliest stage.

Morag Hearty of NHS Lanarkshire, United4Health programme Manager, added: “This is just one of a raft of systems being introduced to get patients more involved in custom designed, personalised healthcare which can only increase independent living.”

To find out more about United4Health and the Florence system, email Morag Hearty on United4.HealthProject@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk

Florence is not an emergency service and patients are advised to contact their GP or NHS24 if they require urgent medical assistance.