A WELL-known Halesowen musician, who was diagnosed with a potentially fatal heart condition, is hoping the publication of his story will help other sufferers.

Alessandro Miccoli, who is one third of the upcoming band Miccoli, discovered he had Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome after collapsing back stage at a gig in Birmingham four years ago.

The 28-year-old pianist, of Lodgefield Road, has undergone four rounds of a corrective surgery – a procedure known as ablation - and is waiting for the final all-clear from his consultant, after his last, and hopefully, final treatment.

During this time, he and his twin brother, Adriano, who is also affected by the condition and their sister, Francesca, aged 26, have continued to write and perform their music and spent most of last year touring Asia.

Alessandro tells his story in a new booklet for young people suddenly diagnosed with a life threatening heart condition publlshed by Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).

It will be launched at a House of Commons event to mark the charity’s annual raising awareness week from November 23 to December 1, focusing on the growing numbers of young people who – thanks to greater knowledge and early diagnosis – are learning to live with a potentially fatal heart condition.

The booklet explains, despite reassurances of expert doctors, friends and family, such a diagnosis can have a devastating effect on these “apparently fit and healthy” young people.

Alessandro said: “This experience has taught me not to take anything for granted and to really appreciate family and friends. For me it all boiled down to two simple choices, cry or laugh. I chose the latter, accepting my condition and carrying on with my life - and not let this potentially depressing and life-threatening condition dominate my life.”

He added: “I now hope that by becoming involved with this new resource that CRY has produced and that by telling my story, I can let anyone else out there who might be going through the same experience that I have, that you are not alone. Help and support is available and you don't need to be scared.”