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Tim’s life took an unexpected turn in the summer of 2019 when he was sent home from the hospital following sudden back pain. That unforgettable night, his aorta ruptured, and his wife Caz had to perform CPR to save his life. It was a harrowing experience for both of them, as the hospital had given Tim the all-clear just hours before.

Despite the challenges they have faced, Tim and Caz have become dedicated supporters of aortic dissection patient support. Their passion for raising awareness and helping others has led them to cheer on runners at races, organise raffles, and even rally their running team, the Belvedere Plodders, to fundraise for the cause.

In June 2023, Karen’s life changed forever with the sudden and unexpected loss of her amazing brother, Phil, at age 50 to a misdiagnosed type A dissected aortic aneurysm. This condition, which went undetected in Phil, a strong, healthy, and active man, had a profound impact on Karen and her family.

In honour of Phil and his love for running, Karen and her family decided to participate in the Wilmslow Half Marathon raising funds for and awareness of aortic dissection. The charity’s mission to improve diagnosis and increase survival rates resonated deeply with Karen, as early detection, genetic testing, and greater awareness within A&E departments can make all the difference. Karen’s own thoracic aneurysm diagnosis, made following sibling screening because of Phil’s sudden death, has made her even more grateful for each day and determined to support the charity in its life-saving mission.

Taking on her longest run to date, Karen found strength in her brother’s memory. Though she is not an avid runner, she embraced the challenge, shedding tears but feeling blessed to be able to participate in his memory.

In 2014, Lauren’s father, Ian, passed away suddenly from a type A aortic dissection while cycling. Ian, known as the life and soul of the party, was a fit and healthy man who was loved by many. Lauren is committed to raising funds for aortic dissection research, in hopes of preventing others from experiencing the same pain her family did.

Lauren’s efforts extended beyond fundraising; as a specialist physiotherapist in Major Trauma at St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, she works within her hospital to educate her colleagues, specifically the care group at St George’s Hospital, about aortic dissection. She believes that early detection, genetic testing, and Emergency Service knowledge can mean the difference between life and death.

Honouring her father’s passion for fitness, Lauren decided to participate in several running events, including the Battersea Half Marathon, Brighton Half Marathon, and the Copenhagen Marathon. Her journey of strength, love, and resilience is a testament to her father’s memory and the charity’s mission.