Surgery and Sewing: from the Theatre to the Gallery

A new exhibition of portable antique sewing machines has been opened in Penmaenmawr… by a heart surgeon from Liverpool.

Displaying part of 76 year-old Frank Meldrum’s classic collection, the ‘So Handy’ gallery has finally become a reality, thanks in part to the specialist care and treatment he received earlier this year from Mr Mo Zeinah, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon and all the team at Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital.

Frank said: “I’ve always had a passion for portable antique sewing machines, and I wanted to find a space where other people could enjoy them as well. But after spending eight months converting a shop to put them on display, my plans were put on hold by a heart attack at the end of March.

“After being transferred to Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital for specialist care, my wonderful surgeon, Mr Zeinah, told me that I needed major surgery - a triple heart bypass and an aortic heart valve replacement.”

“Thankfully the surgery was a success and after a couple of weeks receiving care from the staff in intensive care and on the wards, I was able to return home to continue my recovery – and to complete the work I’d started on the gallery.”

Mr Zeinah said: "I was delighted and honoured to be invited by Frank to visit and also to formally open his gallery and it's wonderful to see him back on his feet and enjoying the things he loves most." 

The gallery (6 Oxford Arcade, Pant-Yr-Afon, Penmaenmawr, LL34 6AE), which is also supporting the Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital Charity, was officially opened by Mr Zeinah on Thursday 1st July.