From Heart Attack to 10K: Rob King's Recovery Journey with parkrun to inspire others

"On July 12th, 2025, my life changed in an instant”. Rob suffered a heart attack at the age of 59 caused by a blockage in his LAD artery - this happened just one day before he was scheduled to run the Torfaen Mic Morris 10k.  

With cardiovascular disease being one of the biggest health issues across Gwent, Rob is sharing his remarkable recovery story to help others be more aware of how to keep their heart health on track. 

“As someone who had always been active, this came as a shock. Looking back, there were warning signs: some breathlessness during exercise which I'd attributed to the hot weather, and occasional chest tightness. But there was no dramatic collapse or arrest - just enough to make me seek help." 

After his heart attack Rob was admitted to the Grange Acute Cardiac Unit. “I received exceptional care - they were fantastic from admission through discharge. I cannot speak highly enough of Aneurin Bevan University Health Board's care. Following this, I commenced an 8-week Gwent Cardio Rehab programme at Panteg, where the entire team provided outstanding support.  

My return to fitness began sooner than many might expect - and parkrun was central to my recovery”. 

Two weeks after his heart attack, Rob re-joined Cwmbran parkrun as a volunteer which supported his mental health, later progressing to walking and then running. By September, just 11 weeks post-event, he had completed the London Vitality 10K — a remarkable milestone in his recovery. 

“The beauty of parkrun is that there's no judgment - whether you take 20 minutes or 60 minutes, you're celebrated equally”. 

On Saturday November 29th a special parkrun event raising awareness around heart health will be hosted at the River Front parkrun site in Newport. Joined by NHS staff and the British Heart Foundation attendees can find out all about looking after their heart.  

Join Rob and others  on Saturday 29th November “parkrun isn't just about running. It's about community, inclusion, and support. Whether you're recovering from illness, building fitness, or simply want to be part of something special - you can volunteer, walk, run at your own pace, or just turn up for a chat and coffee. The important thing is to get involved”. 

For more information about the event, click here: Aneurin Bevan University Health Board & British Heart Foundation (Cymru) Special Event 29th November | Riverfront parkrun