The wife of one of the first babies to have open heart surgery is hoping curry and comedy will help bring in the cash to fund more research.

Philippa Dunstan-Magee, from Gravesend, has organised an evening of entertainment in aid of the British Heart Foundation (BHF) because her husband, Sam Magee, has a heart condition.

Sam, who is waiting for the go-ahead for his transplant, said: “We want to raise money so the BHF can explore other medications and avenues not just for myself, but for others too.

“Eighteen months ago, I was at death’s door. On occasions, I didn’t think I was going to wake up the next day.”

The 44-year-old has had problems with his heart since he was born, being one of the first babies to have open heart surgery in the 1970s. Sam has been on a waiting list for a heart and lung transplant for three years.

Philipa said she desperately hopes new treatments are discovered for Sam and so many other people like him.

She said: “For medical research to continue, it is essential that funds are raised to support the British Heart Foundation.

“The research for new surgical procedures and drugs enabled through their fundraising saves so many lives. Were it not for the BHF Sam would not have made it to 44.”

She is now calling for people to join them for a comedy, curry and cabaret night to raise money for the BHF.

Anyone Who Has A Heart will be held at The Woodville, Gravesend, on Saturday, May 13 and will begin with a red carpet and prosecco reception. Guests can tuck into a curry and then enjoy comedy from award-winning Sooz Kempner and live music from West End Singer Emma Lindar.

The Jugnu Bhangra dancers will also be performing. There will be a raffle and auction with a holiday abroad and West End tickets just some of the prizes up for grabs.

Hosting the show will be Ant Payne and Rob Pearce, comedy duo and familiar faces at The Woodville.

Philippa said the evening was not about helping Sam alone. She said: “It’s about raising money for research which has kept him and so many others alive. Sam is an amazing husband and loving father to our children. He is so passionate about helping others.”

Sam said his wife had been there for him since the day they met. He said: “We met for a reason, she is there to hold my hand when I can’t breathe or to phone an ambulance at 2am. She is absolutely fantastic and I’m sure the BHF will appreciate her efforts.”

Tickets are £50 each. To book visit The Woodville website or call 08442 439480.