In the UK, fewer than 1 in 10 people survive an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. I’m one of the lucky ones.

In October 2024, after completing a half marathon, I collapsed with seizures and a heart attack. Paramedics treated me on the spot, and I spent 7 minutes without a heartbeat. I was placed into an induced coma and underwent open-heart surgery in December 2024. I’m so lucky and grateful to be here today and I want to make sure more young people have the same second chance at life.

This October, one year since my accident, I’ll be running 5K every day to raise funds for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY). CRY works to prevent young sudden cardiac death through screening, research, and support. They are incredibly close to my heart.

-Just £35 can provide an ECG for one person, detecting hidden heart conditions before they become fatal.

-£1,000 funds a 'myheart' support day, giving young people living with cardiac conditions the chance to connect, learn, and gain strength from one another.

At one stage, my family were faced with the possibility that I might never walk or talk again, and I’m unbelievably grateful to have been able to return to exercise – such a huge part of my life. While I hope to return to longer distances one day, I’m currently limiting myself to 5K a day to stay safe.

I would love for people to join me, even if it’s just for 5 minutes of my run. We can run together, whether near me or wherever you are. Please drop me a message to arrange one!

By supporting CRY you will help save young lives (like mine!) from these potentially fatal cardiac conditions.

Please take a look at www.c-r-y.org.uk for more info

All the love,

Darc xxxx