Eight-year-old George Kenny, son of Dan Kenny, a dedicated member of the Elizabethan Lodge in East Lancashire, has been battling a challenging medical condition known as Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy (HOCM). This rare heart condition, characterised by the thickening of the heart walls and septum, restricts blood flow and forces the heart to work significantly harder. Sadly, the more it struggles, the worse the thickening becomes. Due to George's young age, doctors cannot perform surgery until his heart stops growing, which is estimated to be between the ages of 18 and 21.
George has been receiving care and monitoring for the past five years at Alder Hey Children's Hospital. His father, Dan, has been actively raising funds for the hospital, with the most recent effort being a successful Three Peaks Challenge. Alongside other lodge members, Dan raised an impressive £2,485, contributing to the hospital's essential work.
Recently, George's condition reached a critical point. His consultant warned that he was at a high risk of developing arrhythmias or even heart failure. In response, on Sunday, 18th August, George was escorted by 25 Masonic Bikers to Alder Hey, where the club presented him with his own personalised biker Cut and Patches – a symbol of the support and solidarity of the Freemasons' community. The following day, George underwent surgery to have an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) fitted. This life-saving device will help manage any irregular heart rhythms that could otherwise prove fatal.
The surgery was a success, and George has since returned home to recuperate. While he remains under the careful watch of his doctors, the operation marks a significant step in his ongoing care.
For years, George has had to live with the limitations imposed by his condition. Activities that many children take for granted, such as playing football with friends or even walking short distances, are often too much for him. His father often has to carry him when he becomes too tired. Recognising the profound impact this has had on George's day-to-day life, one of our Provincial Welfare Officers suggested applying to the Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF) for support.
The MCF approved funding for George's specially designed electric wheelchair, which will offer him greater independence and mobility. The wheelchair, designed to George's specifications, is expected to be delivered in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for updates and photos as George embarks on this new chapter with the support of his Masonic brothers and the wider community.
This heartening story reflects not only George's bravery but also the strength of the Masonic community, which continues to rally around him and his family in their time of need. Let's continue to show our support and keep George in our thoughts as he moves forward with determination and hope.
