FOR Debbie Robinson, taking part in the Basingstoke Santa Jog is a cause close to her heart.

The 36-year-old mum-of-two has a rare genetic condition called hypertrophic cardiomypopathy This means that Debbie’s heart muscle has become thickened and she sometimes suffers from angina. In most cases, sufferers can lead a normal life, but a small number can die suddenly.

This is why Debbie knows for herself the importance of the British Heart Foundation’s dedication to pioneering research – and this is her motivation for taking part in the BHF Santa Jog in Eastrop Park on Sunday, December 6.

She said: “I can exercise and keep myself healthy, but it is also important to support the charity which is leading the fight against heart disease.”

Debbie, lives in Heron Park, Lychpit, with her husband Roy and daughters Abi, six, and Sarah, three, and works for Zurich Insurance as a product developer.

She first became aware of her condition when she was a teenager after getting chest pains. Tests revealed she had the rare condition, which cannot be cured, although heart specialists at Basingstoke hospital closely monitor it.

She said: “If I have a heavy meal, I can get pains in my chest and palpitations when walking up the stairs. I also take a while to warm up before exercising because my heart muscle needs to work a lot harder.”

But Debbie (pictured) has always been determined not to let the condition hold her back. And, in the last month, she has been training hard after signing up to join the army of Santas who will be massing on December 6.

She added: “As well as raising money, it is a good way to lose weight.”

Free Santa suits can be picked up at registration on the morning of the run, or joggers can receive one by post for an extra £2 if they register before the race. The event will get under way at 11am after a performance by the Sing for Fun choir.

Debbie said: “I am encouraging everyone from Basingstoke to come along and take part. You don’t have to be fit – you just need to have fun and raise money.”

Participants who raise £50 in sponsorship for the event will be entered into a free prize draw to win a Nintendo Wii.

To take part, contact the BHF events team on 08081002109 or go to bhf.org.uk/ basingstokesantajog.