As every January welcomes a wave of New Year’s resolutions, there’s a familiar phenomenon of the Quitter’s Day, when many people give up on their goals. Affecting countless resolutions every year, the 12th January marks Quitter’s Day, the day when many will no longer commit to their New Year goals. However, amidst these faltering commitments, there are individuals who defy these odds and strive towards their goals. One such inspiring individual is John Hissett, whose remarkable journey inspires resilience.
Having lost his mother to a cardiac arrest and his niece, Izzy, to Tetralogy of Fallot, a congenital heart defect, John’s story is one of personal loss. Turning his grief into a powerful force for positive change, John channelled his passion for running to make a significant impact on the fight against heart diseases.
For three consecutive years, John participated in the Great North Run, rallying support and fundraising for Heart Research UK, which will continue to support the work researchers do to stop heart diseases. In the year 2023, he teamed up with his wife, Ruth, and together they raised an impressive total of over £1,000. For him, running isn’t just a personal challenge, it’s a heartfelt commitment to honour the memory of his late mother and niece.


Choosing to run to take on heart diseases and his commitment to running stands as a reminder that resolutions are rooted in a deep, personal connection and can withstand the challenges that often lead to quitting. John’s inspiring story reminds us that commitment and perseverance can continue even in the face of adversity. Let his determination be the motivation you need to defy Quitter’s Day and remind you to focus on your New Year’s resolutions.
Our 2024 events, including the London to Brighton Cycle, the Great North Run, and the Swim the Channel Challenge, provide the perfect opportunity to turn resolutions into actions. Participate to build not just a healthier future but to contribute to lifesaving research and making a difference.
Join John and countless others in supporting heart research by signing up for these events. You can take a step towards positive change and together we won’t stop until there are no more deaths from heart diseases.