NW Hearts Charity Chief Executive James White completed the London Marathon on Sunday 26 April, raising vital funds and awareness for the Greater Manchester heart charity he now leads.

For James, crossing the finish line was far more than a personal achievement. In January 2023, he suffered a heart attack – an experience that changed his life and gave him a deeply personal understanding of the fear, uncertainty and gratitude that can follow a cardiac event.

Just over three years later, James took on one of the world’s most iconic endurance challenges in aid of NW Hearts Charity, which supports people affected by heart disease across Greater Manchester through funding, support, awareness and community-based projects.

The marathon was a powerful reminder of what recovery can look like, and of the importance of hope, resilience and support after a heart diagnosis. Every mile carried added meaning – not only because of James’s own journey, but because of the thousands of people and families across Greater Manchester whose lives are touched by heart conditions each year.

James’s effort has helped shine a spotlight on the charity’s work at an important time, as NW Hearts Charity begins it’s fifth year supporting local patients, families and NHS partners.

Speaking after the event (which he completed just 2 hours 41 minutes after the winner!), Stockport based James said the marathon had been emotional, challenging and unforgettable, and that he was proud to run in aid of a charity working to improve the lives of people affected by heart disease across Greater Manchester. He is really grateful to everyone who sponsored him, with over £2,000 raised so far.

NW Hearts Charity is encouraging anyone inspired by James’s story to support the 5th Anniversary Fundraising Appeal and help ensure more people affected by heart conditions receive the support, information and hope they need.