From The Straits Times · Raul Dancel · · 1m
Gareth Hopkins finishes marathon after cardiac arrest
Gareth Hopkins, a paramedic who nearly died during the 2026 London Marathon, completed the race six months later.
In brief
Gareth Hopkins, a paramedic who nearly died during the 2026 London Marathon, completed the race six months later. Gareth Hopkins finished the 2026 London Marathon six months after cardiac arrest, completing the race for his grandmother and donors who raised £13,000. Originally reported by The Straits Times.
Cardiac arrest during marathon
Gareth Hopkins, a 43-year-old paramedic, collapsed 2km from the 2026 London Marathon finish line.
Heart stopped for 16 minutes
His heart stopped for 16 minutes and he spent four weeks in intensive care.
Wife finds him in cardiac arrest
His wife Jodie found him in cardiac arrest after a call dropped.
Recovery journey
Gareth recovered through rehabilitation over 28 days with 1,000 little victories.
Completed final mile
Six months later, he ran the final mile to finish the race for his grandmother and donors.
Raised £13,000 for Age UK
He raised over £13,000 (S$18,600) for Age UK in memory of his grandmother.
The essence
Gareth Hopkins finished the 2026 London Marathon six months after cardiac arrest, completing the race for his grandmother and donors who raised £13,000.
