Run for the Kids is Samantha Bell’s way of saying thanks to the Royal Children’s Hospital

Samantha Bell was one of the first children to receive keyhole surgery in Australia. Nearly 25 years on, taking part in the Herald Sun/Transurban Run for the Kids is her way of saying thank you.

Samantha Bell, one of the first children in Australia to have lifesaving keyhole heart surgery, is running at this year's Run for the Kids as a way of saying thanks. Picture Jay Town

Samantha Bell was one of the first children to receive keyhole surgery in Australia and nearly 25 years on, the experience remains close to her heart.

“I was born with a tiny heart defect,” said the 27-year-old, who fittingly works for the Heart Foundation.

“Thankfully, aside from a check-up every five years, it hasn’t impacted my quality of life,” she said.

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Samantha still fondly recalls her time at the hospital.

“I remember the nurses being so attentive, selfless and invested in me. It was clearly beyond a job to them,” she said.

Samantha Bell. Picture Jay Town

“One of the ways I like to give back is by participating in Run for the Kids.”

A foot injury prevented Samantha’s involvement in the fun run for the past two years, so she’s looking forward to making a triumphant return at this April’s event. “It’ll be my fifth time participating and I can’t wait to be back on the Bolte.”

To learn more about the Herald Sun/Transubran Run for the Kids, check out the special liftout in Thursday’s copy of the Herald Sun.