London Marathon fundraising for British Heart Foundation

Phil Scurrah, of Burwell, joined a team of 800 British Heart Foundation (BHF) runners who took to the streets of London on Sunday April 21, all with the same mission to fund life-saving research.  

The 54-year-old procurement manager completed the gruelling 26.2-mile course in 3:54.

He took on the challenge because he had heart surgery last year, which was performed by a BHF trustee, Dr Sarah Clarke, at Papworth Hospital.

Phil was diagnosed with coronary heart disease in February 2023 after becoming breathless and uncomfortable during a run.

After tests and scans, he was found to have had coronary artery block, meaning that only half of his heart of was working.

In June 2023, Phil had surgery performed by Dr Sarah Clarke at Papworth who broke through the blockage in his artery.

He also had a stent inserted to help keep the artery open. Prior to this, Phil had been unable to walk without becoming incredibly breathless.

Phil said: “As soon as the stent was fitted and the blood could flow through again, I felt my breathing was back to normal immediately – it was remarkable.

“Having thought I was perfectly fit and healthy before the diagnosis, going from doing long runs to not being able to walk properly was extraordinary and the relief after my surgery is something I am so grateful to the BHF for.”

Phil deferred his London Marathon entry from 2023 to 2024, choosing to now run the race for the BHF.

Just two months after his surgery, Phil was back running and focusing on his next big challenge – the London Marathon.

Upon crossing the finish line, Phil said: "It was a huge challenge and an incredible experience.

“The atmosphere around the course was electric and it was amazing having so many people cheering me on.

“It made me even more determined to cross the finish line.  

“I’m proud that I’m doing as much as I can to support the charity's amazing work.”