This August, Martin Hilton and his wife Fiona will embark on an extraordinary adventure that reflects not just physical endurance but also the resilience of the human spirit. Martin, an aortic dissection survivor, and now a self-proclaimed Aortic Athlete, is preparing to walk the entire South West Coast Path alongside Fiona. Their journey, beginning in Minehead and concluding in Poole over 47 gruelling days, is a powerful testament to Martin’s recovery and a beacon of hope for others affected by aortic dissection.
Martin talks to Wythenshawe FM presenter Dave Cox
Martin’s story is nothing short of remarkable. In March 2020, a routine run took an unexpected turn when he experienced an aortic dissection, a life-threatening condition often mistaken for a heart attack. Thanks to the swift action of a perceptive consultant and the skilled hands of Mr Mehta and his team at Wythenshawe Hospital, Martin’s life was saved. Since then, he has channelled his energy into regaining his fitness, leading to this ambitious trek along England’s longest waymarked trail.
Adding a deeply personal touch to their journey, Martin and Fiona have named this challenge Walking in My Shoes, inspired by the popular Depeche Mode song. As lifelong fans of the band, this name holds special significance for them, especially in light of the tragic passing of the band’s keyboardist, Andrew Fletcher, who died of an aortic dissection. Through this tribute, Martin and Fiona aim to honour Fletch’s memory while raising awareness of a condition that has affected their lives so profoundly.
The South West Coast Path, spanning 630 miles from the rugged coastline of Minehead in Somerset to the sandy shores of Poole in Dorset, is no ordinary walk. This iconic trail, with its stunning views of the English coastline, is as challenging as it is beautiful. It’s a route that demands perseverance, with steep ascents that collectively equal nearly four times the height of Mount Everest. For Martin and Fiona, it is the perfect stage to demonstrate not just physical stamina but also the strength that comes from overcoming life’s most daunting challenges.
Their journey is more than just a personal triumph; it’s a mission to raise awareness and funds for aortic dissection research. The couple is dedicated to supporting the Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust, aiming to raise awareness on this often misdiagnosed condition. By sharing their story and undertaking this demanding trek, which coincides with Aortic Dissection Awareness Day, they hope to improve the understanding of aortic dissection, enhance diagnosis, and ultimately save lives.
As they lace up their boots and prepare to tackle each mile, we extend our warmest wishes to Martin and Fiona. Their courage and commitment are truly inspiring, and we are confident that their journey will not only achieve their fundraising goals but also bring much-needed attention to aortic dissection. May this adventure bring them closer together, uplift those who hear their story, and contribute significantly to the causes they champion so passionately.
Here’s to Martin and Fiona—may the winds be at your back and the path ahead as clear as your vision for a better future for all those touched by aortic dissection. We’ll be cheering you on every step of the way!