Russ Hayes support fund

If you're reading this, the chances are that you know our friend Russ suffered a massive stroke and haemorrhage on the right side of his brain. Quick action by family members and incredible work by the neurosurgeons at The Walton Centre meant that Russ's life was saved. Unfortunately, the irreparable brain damage caused by the bleed meant his entire left side was paralysed. Fortunately, his cognitive abilities remained intact. Two months into his recovery, his left arm remains paralysed, but he has progressed from being unable to stand to taking a few aided steps around the hospital. The medical team have discovered the cause of the stroke to be due to an infection in one of his heart valves, which turns out to have been faulty since birth. The valve needs to be replaced, so (at the time of writing) Russ is now awaiting open heart surgery before he can begin long-term stroke rehabilitation to help him walk again.

Russ is such a big part of so many people's lives. Not just family and friends, but the musical community in North Wales and beyond. This page has been set up to try and help Russ financially while he is unable to work throughout what is likely to be a lengthy recovery period. He's given so much to us as friends, family members and musicians, so it seems right that we give as much back as we can. I know times are tough for many of us at the moment, so any contribution you can manage would be hugely appreciated. It'll mean so much to Russ (and Carly!).

Thanks so much for taking the time to read this, and for your continued support. I know all the messages and well wishes have meant a great deal to Russ and his family.