A CARDIFF University medical student has completed her first Cardiff Half Marathon in memory of her father, raising funds and awareness for British Heart Foundation (BHF) Cymru.
Sara Hillman, 20, from Llangennech took on the challenge to honour her dad, Nigel, who tragically passed away from a heart attack in November 2022. The loss was sudden and devastating, with no prior warning of heart issues.
Sara said: “It was the 17th of November 2022 when I got the call while in school. I rushed to the hospital, but it was too late—my dad had died of a heart attack. We had no idea he had any heart problems. It was completely unexpected.”
Motivated by her personal experience and her growing interest in heart health through her studies, Sara chose to run in support of BHF Cymru.
She explained: “At his funeral, we asked for donations to BHF instead of flowers. That connection stayed with me, and as I learned more about the charity and the work they do, I wanted to do something more.”
Sara’s journey into running began at university, where she joined the gym and discovered a passion for cardio and endurance training. Inspired by the atmosphere of previous Cardiff Half Marathons, she decided to take on the challenge herself.
Sara is a second-year medical student and began training while balancing her university workload. Despite the challenges of exam season, she remained committed to her goal. She was joined on race day by her friend Solene, who also ran the race, and with her mum, Delyth and sister, Alice, cheering her on from the sidelines.
She said: “The atmosphere was incredible—so much support and energy. It was emotional, but I felt proud to be running for Dadi.”
Rhodri Thomas, Head of BHF Cymru, said: “We are so proud of Sara, and all our runners at this years’ Cardiff Half Marathon for their commitment to our cause.
“The sad reality is that each month, around 800 families in Wales will lose a loved one to cardiovascular conditions like a heart attack and stroke, and it’s people like Sara that will bring us closer to the day that everyone has a healthier heart for longer. Diolch o galon.”
For Sara, completing the Cardiff Half Marathon was more than a personal achievement—it was a tribute to her father and a step toward helping others avoid similar heartbreak.
She said: “To me, BHF Cymru represents hope. Their research means that in the future, families might not have to go through what we did. I just want to thank them for everything they’re doing—and I hope I’ve made my dad proud.”
