Thank you for taking the time to visit my page and read my story, it’s an unbelievable privilege to be writing this and taking part in two ultra challenges for the BHF.

In Nov’22, after a few months of training to participate in the Barcelona Marathon, I collapsed out running due to acute heart failure. I spent 3 weeks in 2 hospitals, undergoing extensive testing to get to the bottom of my heart attack. I was released after having a procedure implanting a monitor into my chest as the tests were inconclusive.

I spent months rebuilding my confidence, routine and my spirit. I slowly got back out running again through joining popular run clubs in Manchester and fell back in love with running. In the summer of 2023 I decided to give the Barcalona Marathon another go. 11 months from my first accident, I collapsed out a run again. I spent some time in hospital and due to my heart monitor not picking up any irregularities we were back to square one. Again, I went through thorough testing by excellent specialists who then 4 weeks later operated on my heart.

During my time in hospital I was utterly blown away the care and support recieved but even more so by the progressive technology and science used in the cardiology department. The BHF is cardiovascular research charity, who funds medical research related to heart and circulatory diseases and their risk factors, and runs influencing work aimed at shaping public policy and raising awareness. From implementing new technologies and extensive research across all age groups and demographics.

My range of exercise is now limited to walking, yoga and pilates and for those close to me will understand how difficult this has been for me to accept as for the last 25 years exercise has played a huge part in my life.

Despite the frustration, I feel immense gratitude for being able to move my body in whatever way I can. Therefore, I will be channelling my energy into participating in two ultra walking challenges.

In April, I will be walking 50km continuously as part of the London Easter ultra challenge. In July, I will be walking 100km continuously as part of the Peak District Ultra challenge.

For both challenges, I will be raising money for the BFH to support the vital work that they do.

Any donations or shares of my page would mean the world to me.

Lots of love

Lis xx