Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

It is ten years ago since I underwent a lifesaving operation as a result of suffering an aortic dissection .

Since my school days and until 2007 I have been a keen runner competing at Local, County and Regional levels as well as  International level in my late teens.

In September 2007, my life changed and I have been unable to continue competing in the sport which I love.

My symptoms were unusual at the time, such that the doctors believed I had a neurological problem. Due to the diligence of a consultant at the John Radcliffe Hospital who sought to check my heart, he discovered that I had a split in my aorta with blood leaking throughout my body. His swift action saved my life. There is a 1-2% chance of anyone surviving this problem, I count myself a very lucky man.

I was taken into surgery and underwent a 7.5 hour emergency operation to repair the tear to my aorta and re-suspend my aeortic valve. Two days after this major operation I suffered a deep vein thrombosis.

Because I cannot run the event I am going to cycle the course and be the 'lead bike' hopefully I can stay ahead of the field around the Carterton 10K course and would welcome your sponsorship.