A former professional footballer who now suffers from a life-threatening heart condition has been bringing a smile to the faces of sick children. Many of the youngsters at the Children's Heart Unit, based at Newcastle's Freeman Hospital, also have major heart problems. But they were given a special boost following a visit by former Sunderland player, Tony Norman, who has recently been diagnosed with cardiomyopathy. Specialists have said the 47-year-old may need a heart transplant in the future and he is now working with the Children's Heart Foundation to raise money. Now, he is adding his voice to the Chronicle's campaign to get more people to sign the NHS Organ Donor Register. Tony, who played as a goalkeeper for Sunderland between 1987 and 1993, said: "When they told me I had damage to my heart, the consultant said I could have medication or, in the future, may need a heart transplant. "At the minute, the medication seems to be working just fine but for the children who have no choice but a transplant, then I would encourage people to sign up." After retiring from the game, Tony joined Durham Constabulary where he served as an officer for nine years. But in January 2003, he fell ill and was referred by his GP for tests. It was later discovered he was suffering from cardiomyopathy, a disease that affects the heart muscle. The former Welsh international was then forced to retire from the police on medical grounds. He added: "Up until I was 45 years' old, I was a fit and healthy man. "So, it is important for me to try to help the children who have not had that option. "As long as I have some kind of quality of life and am able to work then I will be happy." More than 5,000 children each year are born with a congenital heart problem and, of these, many will require major surgery during the first few years of their lifetime. | 
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