A 21-year-old student from Southall, whose father has survived five heart attacks, is taking part in London Landmarks Half Marathon to raise money for the British Heart Foundation (BHF).
Isha Chana, 21, will be running next month (6 April 2025) to show thanks for the care and support her dad has received over the past 20 years.
In 2004, when he was 35-years old, Sunny Chana had his first heart attack while undergoing investigatory tests in the hospital. In the 20 years since, he has required ongoing treatment for his heart condition which included insertion of stents to help restore blood flow.
In 2023, Mr Chana began experiencing palpitations and shortness of breath due to heart failure. Tests revealed that the father of two, who also has type 2 diabetes, needed additional stents inserted.
Isha says her father has never let his health challenges stop him. He has given back to his community and volunteers as a patient representative on two local health boards and a heart charity.
Now, Ms Chana has decided to give back to the British Health Foundation.
She said: “Running has never interested me but wanted to challenge myself. I gave myself a year to prepare – I started with Park Run and have pushed myself ever since. People still can’t believe I’m doing it.”
According to latest data, across Ealing more than 31,000 people live with a heart condition.
Megan Stewart, senior events executive at BHF, said: “Heart and circulatory problems can affect anyone at any age, and we estimate that more than half of us in the UK will experience one of these conditions in our lifetime. That’s why research into prevention, treatment, and cures is so vital. Thanks to Isha’s efforts, we can continue funding scientists to turn innovative ideas into life-changing treatments available at your GP.
“Medical breakthroughs don’t just happen. Without public support, we wouldn’t be able to help save lives and keep families together for longer.”
To support Ms Chana’s fundraising, click here.
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