The first week of October 2013
I was in Bristol Royal Infirmary Hospital preparing for a little bit of open heart surgery, for the third time. On this occasion, it was to repair and replace various valves that were seriously struggling and to have a pacemaker fitted. 

Several months earlier, my heart stopped for seven seconds whilst I was out running, causing me to fall unconscious. Luckily it decided to start beating again, phew!

This prompted my cardiologist to put a strict ban on any exercise until after surgery. When I say strict I mean strict, no playing with the dog or even running up the stairs. This my excuse for getting a bit chubby.

The first week of October 2014
I'll be in Cardiff Centre preparing for the half marathon. Yup, my operation was a success and I've managed to get myself fit and strong again. I'm hugely grateful to live in a country with national healthcare and organisations such as the British Heart Foundation, who offer an abundance of support and advice to people with rubbish hearts.

I've decided to try and raise some money for the British Heart Foundation as a small thank you for the fantastic work they do and as an added bonus, all this running is keeping my heart in good nick.

Thank you very much for the support and feel free to spread the word.

Cheers,

Gareth