A young runner from Hull has triumphantly completed his first half marathon since suffering a sudden cardiac arrest during a race last year, in a remarkable story of survival and community support.
Collapse Near the Finish Line
Joshua Breene, aged 23, was participating in the Birmingham Half Marathon in May 2025 when he collapsed less than a kilometre from the finish line. Initial reports suggested a stabbing incident on Westminster Bridge, but it was later confirmed that Joshua had experienced a cardiac arrest. Fellow runner Lloyd Heckler, a physiotherapist, immediately performed CPR on Joshua until emergency paramedics arrived at the scene.
Diagnosis and Hospitalisation
Joshua was swiftly transported to hospital, where he was diagnosed with an atrial flutter, an abnormal heart rhythm condition. He underwent necessary surgery and spent a total of six days in hospital recovering from the life-threatening event. The diagnosis highlighted the unpredictable nature of cardiac issues, even in young, active individuals.
Support from a Fellow Runner
Lloyd Heckler, who had assisted Joshua during the emergency, later connected with him through the popular running app Strava. Demonstrating incredible kindness, Lloyd visited Joshua in hospital, offering both emotional and practical support during his recovery period. This connection underscored the strong sense of camaraderie often found within the running community.
Road to Recovery and Return to Racing
After a period of careful recovery and receiving full medical clearance from his doctors, Joshua was determined to return to running. In March 2026, he successfully completed the Bath Half Marathon, marking a significant personal milestone. His participation was not just about personal achievement; Joshua used the opportunity to raise money for the British Heart Foundation, a leading charity dedicated to fighting heart and circulatory diseases.
A Message of Hope and Awareness
Joshua's story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of immediate medical response in cardiac emergencies and the value of community support. His journey from collapse to completion highlights resilience and the critical role of organisations like the British Heart Foundation in funding research and raising awareness about heart health.
