A 46-year-old Derry man, who survived two cardiac arrests, is taking on a one million step challenge to raise funds for British Heart Foundation NI.
University lecturer Alex Magee was on an expedition in Germany in February 2020 when he suffered his first cardiac arrest.
Alex said: “I suspected that I was either over exhausted or dehydrated. Later I learnt that I had my first of two cardiac arrests.
“Thankfully because of the quick actions of the medical staff, I survived.”
After 10 days with no diagnosis, Alex was transferred and following further investigations he was fitted with an ICD, a small battery-powered device which detects and can treat life-threatening heart rhythms.
In mid-2021 he started feeling unwell again and was receiving regular shocks from his ICD, which became a “living nightmare”.
He later had his ICD replaced and was put on new medication. All tests Alex had showed no signs of heart disease.
Alex now plans to walk the equivalent distance of the length and breadth of the island of Ireland, approximately 470 miles during July and August and is encouraging people in the local community to join him.
“I want to get my message out there to help support anyone living with a heart condition to be strong, get help if you need it and stay positive,” he explained.
“Even when it seems like your world has ended, it can actually be the start of a new chapter.
“The BHF has a wide range of services and assistance for people like me and many other cardiac conditions.
“They strive for change, funding research into heart conditions and raising awareness of CPR and defibrillators which ultimately save lives.
“Every step I walk is the first step someone takes to recovery. Always step forward and never step back. Every time I take a step it is for you.”
Fearghal McKinney, head of BHF NI said: “Alex has been through such a difficult time over the past four years and his strength in recovery and bravery in telling his story around his heart health really is commendable.
“I would encourage everyone to put their best foot forward to support Alex, whether through donating to help fund our lifesaving research or by joining him in his incredible challenge.”
To sponsor Alex and raise funds for BHF NI, go to https://www.justgiving.com/page/alex-magee-1720429855904
