Michael Naylor

Michael's story

Michael George Philip Naylor BEM (Mick) Mick was a man who was able to inspire and encourage people to support worthwhile causes. He gave his time selflessly to the well-being of cardio patients after himself experiencing a heart episode. Mick was instrumental in the sustainment of the Solihull Hospital Cardio Group Club (SHCGC) which supports members and potential members through a very traumatic period in their lives. By encouraging members to join and remain he furthered the continuance of exercise after their rehabilitation programme for many years after a cardiac episode. He created a sense of community by providing social events, initially at his home (farm) and in later years as the group expanded by booking venues. He also encouraged family involvement at the social events to draw support for the club and the members’ wellbeing. He encouraged both social and emotional well-being for all members by creating a mutually supportive community spirit within the membership. Mick kept the club viable for over 25 years, at first being a member of the club and then very soon becoming a more proactive member, later joining the committee. In 2008 the club was on the brink of disbanding when he stepped up to the role of Chairperson and with the Committee ensured its continued longevity. He was always promoting the club to secure healthy membership numbers, maintaining revenue, whilst also supporting the local communities’ opportunity to exercise and rehabilitate using Club funded equipment. In recognition of his service for the well-being of cardiac patients’ rehabilitation Mick was acknowledged in the Queen’s Honours receiving a British Empire Medal (BEM) in 2020. More recently, due to ill health, Mick retired from the position of Chairperson, however was awarded Honorary Lifetime membership for his services to the Cardio Club. Sadly Mick passed away late June this year. For Mick’s final journey he wished for a private affair with just family, however, ever thoughtful of other’s needs, he requested that if anyone wanted to make a ‘donation in memory’ his chosen charity was the Air Ambulance Service.

Remembered by Robert Southgate, Solihull Hospital Cardio Group Club