I’m Ryan and I’m fundraising for two charities that have both directly and indirectly impacted my life, The North East Ambulance Service and The British Heart Foundation.

Almost 3 years ago my dad suffered from a heart attack. It was sudden and unexpected, he was fit and healthy, and exercising at the time. If it wasn’t for the quick arrival of the NEAS and the amazing work of the ambulance crew taking him to hospital he may not have survived. Both my younger brother and I were hundreds of miles away at the time, and if it wasn’t for their amazing work this fundraiser may not be as happy an occasion as it is.

The work of the British Heart Foundation aims to prevent and reduce the number of people who suffer from heart disease, and to support those with heart disease to live happy and healthy lives. This is done through continuous research into new technologies, care and treatment, and the work they do truly is amazing.

My dad has managed to pull through, and is living life to the fullest now, 3 years on. He travels, gardens, walks the dog, and does everything he used to do before. He was able to meet and thank the paramedics that saved his life in person, and got an article written about him in the local paper! This got me thinking, how could I say thank you too?

Just over a year ago I finished my first triathlon and I had an idea. What was the hardest thing I could think of doing? An Iron Man. So here we are. On Sunday the 31st of August, just outside my hometown of Newcastle, I will be starting (and hopefully finishing) my first ever IronMan distance triathlon, the GeordieMan.

3.8km swim

180km cycle

42.2km run (a marathon!)

I’m doing this in honour of everyone who has lost a family member or loved one to a heart condition, to the staff at NEAS who work tirelessly 24/7 across the North East saving lives every day, and everyone at the BHF who work to make sure heart disease is cured.

I’m also doing this for my mam, who was an absolute rock during it all despite not knowing what would happen, my brother, who I know did everything to help out my parents, and of course my dad, who thinks I’m crazy for doing something so mental despite all the crazy things he’s done in his lifetime.

Please donate what you can, all donations will be split 50/50 to both charities.

Thank you, Ryan