A DROITWICH Spa nurse who made a pact with a triple heart bypass patient to climb Britain's highest mountain after her operation is to see her wish fulfilled.

Cardiac rehabilitation sister Linda Barratt, from Worcester Road, struck a bond with patient Denise Winters, from Bromsgrove, after she was admitted to the coronary care unit at Redditch's Alexandra Hospital.

The 54-year-old had a massive heart attack in April 1998 and spent five days in the hospital only to be re-admitted eleven days later with a fast heartbeat.

As she was getting ready for the bypass operation in December 1999, she told Linda she planned to climb Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales. Linda decided to go with her.

Linda said: "Psychological and physical support is very important after heart attacks and surgery.

"Denise's successful rehabilitation along with her positive attitude is encouraging to others."

Denise said: "When you have a heart attack it feels as though you are the only person in the world it has happened to and you just can't believe it.

"At times I couldn't stop crying and Linda provided a lifeline for me night and day working outside her normal hours.

"There were moments when I thought I was going to die but planning our climb was a goal for me to achieve and I am determined to get to the top."

Her experiences have changed her life -- the former carer at an old people's home now helps out at the care unit, showing new patients around and is a member of the committee there.

The pair, along with Denise's husband, Brian, will be making their ascent next Sunday.

Denise is getting in training by climbing the Malvern Hills and Linda is cycling and walking to keep fit.

If you would like to sponsor them or make a donation call Denise on 0121 460 1049 or give cash to Linda at the Alex.