Months After His Heart Stopped, Stuart Is Back on the Start Line

Next month, Stuart will take on the Lincoln Half Marathon, just months after surviving a sudden cardiac arrest that nearly took his life.

Sunday 3rd May 2026 started like any other day for Stuart and his wife, Sarah. After heading out for a short trail run in the morning, Stuart returned home to enjoy a barbecue and a relaxing afternoon.

Later that evening, as the couple sat watching television, the unthinkable happened.

Without warning and with no previous symptoms, Stuart suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. Sarah initially thought he had simply fallen asleep, but quickly realised something was seriously wrong.

Acting fast, she called 999 and immediately began CPR.

Within 10 minutes, a volunteer paramedic from Lincolnshire charity LIVES arrived at the house and took over Stuart's lifesaving treatment. Within half an hour of the emergency call, a LIVES responder, a Lincolnshire ambulance crew and a doctor from the Air Ambulance were all on scene, working together to save his life.

After several weeks in hospital, and following three further cardiac arrests, Stuart underwent surgery to have an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) fitted. The device continuously monitors his heart rhythm and can deliver treatment if a life-threatening abnormality is detected.

Despite extensive investigations and significant progress in his recovery, specialists have yet to determine the cause of Stuart's cardiac arrests.

Reflecting on his experience, Stuart said: "Without Sarah's quick thinking and the incredible medical support I received, I simply wouldn't be here today."

Returning to distance running was not something Stuart expected to do so soon. However, when he learned that LIVES was looking for supporters to help raise awareness and funds, he knew he wanted to give something back to the organisation that played such a vital role in saving his life.

Now, he is preparing to take on the Lincoln Half Marathon in support of the charity and as a celebration of how far he has come.

Stuart said: "Whether I run every mile or combine running and walking is beside the point. My aim is simply to cross the finish line and raise as much money and awareness as possible for an organisation that was instrumental in saving my life."

Every step Stuart takes on race day will be a powerful reminder of the lifesaving actions of his wife, the emergency responders who came to his aid, and the second chance he has been given.