by Rhiannon Oliver

One of the first babies born in the 1970s to have open heart surgery is raising yet more cash for the charity which saved him.

Sam Magee, now 46, underwent the operation after he was born with a heart condition.

Since then, he has needed ongoing treatment and is waiting for a lung and heart transplant.

In the meantime, he and his family are doing what they can to support the British Heart Foundation (BHF).

His wife Philippa Dunstan, 48, says her husband would not be alive if it was not for the organisation and has organised a Vegas-style cabaret night to raise funds.

Ms Dunstan, of Allens Mead, Gravesend, has two children with Mr Magee - Finn, 11, and Molly, nine.

Mr Magee is also dad to Jake, 17, from a previous relationship.

Ms Dunstan decided to organise the fundraising extravaganza, Anyone Who Has A Heart Does Vegas, to raise as much money as possible for the foundation. All proceeds from the event will be donated to the cause.

She said: “Were it not for the BHF, Sam would not have made it to 46.

“Research for new surgical procedures and drugs enabled through their fundraising saves so many lives.”

The night includes cocktails on arrival, a two-course dinner, a show, a casino and disco.

Olivier award-winning actress and singer Leanne Jones will perform alongside jazz singer Stephen Porter and Elvis impressionist, Bal Johal.

There will also be showgirls and a magician, plus a raffle and an auction.

Ms Dunstan added: “This isn’t about helping Sam alone, it’s about raising money for research which has kept him and so many others alive.

“For medical research to continue, it is essential funds are raised to support the British Heart Foundation.”

The event is being held at The Woodville, Windmill Street, Gravesend, on Saturday, September 22, from 7pm. Tickets cost £50. You can buy them online at www.woodville.co.uk or call 08442 439480.