My name is Tiny, and eight months ago I could barely walk across a field without clutching my chest and holding my wife’s arm.

On 11 September, I’m going to take on the 5K Wolf Run to raise money for the Rugby Cardiac Rehabilitation team who helped give me my life back.

Last October, I was given news nobody ever expects to hear — I may have had less than six weeks to live.

I underwent major open-heart surgery to replace my aortic valve with a mechanical valve. Thankfully, the operation was successful, but that was only the beginning of getting my life back.

After surgery, I was referred to Rugby Cardiac Rehabilitation for a 16-session rehabilitation programme.

The team there were incredible. They gave me the confidence to start exercising again, helped me understand what my new heart could do and, step by step, helped me rebuild my strength and my life.

My journey actually started long before the operation. I’ve lost an incredible 32 stone in weight. It’s been a massive transformation, but after heart surgery I had to start rebuilding all over again.

Only eight months ago I was slowly walking across that field holding my wife’s arm for support.

Today I’m in the gym five times a week, running at least 10K a week and training for the Wolf Run.

Now it’s my turn to give something back.

The cardiac rehab team rely on donations for equipment, and I’d like to help provide something that will make a real difference to the people coming through after me.

The equipment we want to provide costs around £6,000. We’ve already raised approximately £2,500, so we’re well on our way. Now I want to raise the remaining £3,500 and get us over the line.

On 11 September I’ll be tackling the 5K Wolf Run and its obstacles. For me, crossing that finish line will mean far more than completing a run.

It will show just how far I’ve come.

I’d love to make this happen for the next person who walks through the doors of Rugby Cardiac Rehabilitation frightened, uncertain and needing the same help that I did.

Whether you can give £1, £5, £20 or more, every donation gets us a little closer. And if you’re a local business that would like to support the challenge with a larger donation, I’d love to hear from you.

32 stone lost.

Open-heart surgery.

Eight months of rebuilding.

Now a 5K Wolf Run.

I’m doing it for the people who helped give me my life back.

Thank you for your support.

Tiny — AKA The Honey Badger