Gail's story

On May 1, 2024, I set out for a run after completing an hour of cycling. However, I started to struggle to breathe, found myself sweating profusely, and faced overwhelming difficulty in continuing. When you think of someone having a heart attack, you always envision that dramatic image of someone clutching their chest and collapsing; it’s rarely a gradual onset, which is what I experienced.

Initially, I dismissed my symptoms as insignificant, especially since I had been told before that my breathing issues and tight chest were just signs of over-exercising. But this time my GP had a different perspective and urged me to go to Accident & Emergency.

After a few tests, I was admitted to the cardiology ward and then taken down to catheterization lab where stents went inserted because my left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery was over 80% blocked. I was distraught.

Over time, I have been learning to rebuild my trust in my body, and it’s been a journey. I feel incredibly fortunate to share my story nine months after my heart attack. I’m back to doing what I love—running, cycling, hitting the gym, and climbing Munros with the Highland Walking Club.