The aim is to raise money for the Cath Lab and the Cardiac Care Unit at Glan Clwyd Hospital, Bodelwyddan here in North Wales by undertaking the 85 mile Snowdonia Slate Trail.

http://www.snowdoniaslatetrail.org/index.php/routes

In 2015, I was rushed to hospital with a heart attack and was cared for by both departments.

Following a spell in intensive care, a near death experience, two stents and still a 100% artery block later, I am more than thankful to be here.

“I would like to offer my heart-felt gratitude to all the amazing staff at Glan Clwyd Hospital, particularly to those in the Cath lab and the Cardiac Care Unit. Particular thanks must go to Dr Subkovis, Dr Das, Shelley, Nige, Tina and all the rest of the staff. Thank you for saving my life.”

The prognosis for recovery at the time of discharge was not brilliant, I was told that I had impaired my health by being a 'late presentation'. For those that dont know what a late presentation is, it is allowing a heart attack to take place without seeking immediate medical attention. During that period between the heart attack and receiving medical attention, your heart muscle progressively dies.

My heart attack ambushed me in that it didn't appear as you would see on tv, i.e pains in the chest etc, it was more of a pulled muscle and flue like symptoms. More awareness needs spreading about heart attacks manifest themselves.

With my health being impaired, I was told that my ability to walk any particular length would be compromised. In the last two years I have walked distances of up to 10 miles in one day on flat levels.

The walk, to be done in 2018, now poses more of a challenge. Although the 85 miles will not be done in one hit, it will be done in stages due to the different demands in elevations.

If anyone would like to do ANY of the thirteen stages with me, please feel free to come along for the walk. The stages are all shown on the above link. Why not walk for a charity of your own choice? If you would like to come, I would love to hear from you. You can contact me by emailing cproberts1959@yahoo.co.uk

Thank you so much for reading.