Heart Week, held each May across Australia, is a time to focus on what really matters, our heart health. The campaign encourages all of us to check in with ourselves and our loved ones, start important conversations, and take simple steps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Whether it’s booking a Heart Health Check, using a Heart Age Calculator, or learning more about prevention, Heart Week is a reminder that small actions can make a big difference.

This year, Heart Week feels especially close to home for us.

You may have noticed Cass, our wonderful Hub Manager in Toowoomba, was missing in action for the first few months of the year. Cass underwent open heart surgery and an aortic valve replacement, followed by a long and steady recovery. One of the things she shared with us was just how uncomfortable even simple things, like the trip home from hospital, could be. “I really needed something soft to cuddle,” she said.

That simple comment sparked an idea.

When we started looking around, we were surprised to find there were very few specialised heart pillows available in Australia. Yet these cushions can play such an important role in recovery. Heart-shaped pillows are designed to gently conform to the chest, helping reduce pressure on surgical incision areas, especially during coughing, sneezing, or even deep breathing. They provide a sense of security and support when it’s needed most.

We couldn’t think of a more perfect material than sheepskin, soft, natural, and wonderfully comforting. From that idea, our own heart cushion was born, crafted from rich red sheepskin to provide both warmth and gentle support.

Our ‘heart’ is designed to be lightweight and easy to use, whether at home, in the car, or on the way to follow-up appointments. Proper cushioning can help reduce discomfort along incision lines, support safer movement, and minimise pressure points, all of which contribute to a smoother recovery experience.

Heart Week reminds us that behind every statistic is a real person, a real story. For us, it’s Cass. And it’s a reminder to take care of ourselves and each other, because looking after your heart truly matters.