Biggleswade woman cycles from London to Brighton after dad’s heart attack

Inspired by her dad’s recovery from a life-changing heart attack, Hannah Feeney joined thousands of cyclists to tackle the 54-mile route, starting at Clapham Common, South London.

The ride, which finished on the Brighton Seafront at Madeira Drive, marked almost a year after Hannah’s 63-year-old dad, Stewart, was rushed to hospital suffering from chest pains.

Hannah said: “It was a normal day and then everything changed in an instant. My mum just burst into tears and told me my dad was having a heart attack.

“You hear about heart attacks, but you never expect it to happen to someone in your own family.”

Stewart initially had a stent fitted due to two narrowed arteries and was sent home. But after he started experiencing chest pains again, doctors transferred him to the Royal Bromptom Hospital where he had a double heart bypass surgery.

The operation was a success and now, almost a year on, Stewart has returned to some of his favourite activities, such as golf and swimming, whilst also attending cardiac rehabilitation sessions. He said that he sees his recovery as a “second chance” at life.

Hannah, who had little cycling experience before the challenge, completed the annual charity ride to raise awareness for families affected by heart disease. And it had a special meaning for her, as her dad was a former cyclist.

Speaking ahead of the challenge, Grace Howarth, BHF events manager, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Hannah for taking on this challenge for the British Heart Foundation.

“Every mile she cycles will help fund vital research into heart and circulatory diseases, supporting families across the UK and helping to save lives.”

Over one million pounds was raised on Sunday, with the money going towards life-saving research, supporting families and patients and preventing future heartbreaks.