On February 28, 2015, in the corner of a bustling London pub, thirteen strangers gathered around a table, nervously clutching their drinks. They didn’t know it yet, but that afternoon at the Mulberry Bush would spark a movement that would transform thousands of lives across the United Kingdom. This humble beginning marked the first meeting of what would eventually become Sudden Cardiac Arrest UK (SCA UK), now celebrating its remarkable 10-year journey.
When Survivors Find Their Tribe
I remember walking into that pub feeling utterly alone in my experience. As the founder of what would become SCA UK, I attended with my wife Tracy—the person who saved my life. Walking out, I felt something I hadn’t felt since my cardiac arrest: understood.
That first gathering brought together cardiac arrest survivors, including Gareth and Joanna, alongside co-survivors like Dawn. This co-survivor became a moderator who had stepped into the role of caregiver after her loved one’s cardiac event. For many, it was the first time they had met another person who truly comprehended the unique psychological and physical aftermath of suddenly having your heart stop—and being brought back.
Several months after this pivotal meeting, the Facebook group that would evolve into today’s Sudden Cardiac Arrest UK was born, officially launching in May 2015. Thirteen hearts beating in solidarity have blossomed into a nationwide support network of thousands.
The Science of Shared Healing
Research consistently shows that peer support significantly improves recovery outcomes for cardiac arrest survivors. Sharing traumatic experiences with those who genuinely understand creates powerful healing opportunities that traditional medical care alone cannot provide.
Even when surrounded by a loving family, isolation comes with surviving something so profound. Your loved ones want to understand, but there’s always a gap unless they’ve had their heart restart. In this community, that gap doesn’t exist.
The organization provides safe spaces—both virtual and in-person—where survivors and co-survivors can process their trauma together. One attendee at a recent meetup captured the sentiment perfectly when they said meeting other survivors and their families was like therapy they never knew they needed. Everyone gets it without explanation.
From Beneficiaries to Guardians: Evolution of Leadership
The journeys of Joanna and Gareth exemplify SCA UK’s transformative impact. Both attended that first Mulberry Bush meeting seeking support, eventually becoming Trustees of the organization. Their evolution from seeking help to providing it illustrates the organization’s sustainable community-building approach.
Joanna and Gareth’s journeys with SCA UK demonstrate how receiving support can transform into providing it. They’ve progressed from seeking help in those early days to becoming vital Trustees of our organization today.
Inspiring Recovery Through Example
The power of SCA UK lies not just in emotional support but in showing what’s possible after cardiac arrest. I recall being particularly inspired by Michelle, a fellow survivor, who posted a picture of herself completing a Lake District walk. At the time, I was struggling with fatigue and feeling relatively low. Seeing her achieve such a feat ignited a spark within me, and this week, I found myself climbing some of the highest mountains in the Lake District and England.
This is our community’s greatest strength. We don’t just tell each other recovery is possible—we show it through our actions, challenging each other to redefine what life after cardiac arrest can be.
Celebrating a Decade of Difference: The “10 Years Together” Conference
To commemorate this remarkable journey, SCA UK is hosting its milestone “10 Years Together” conference, which promises to be as transformative as the organization. Designed to be engaging, informative, supportive, and empowering, the conference will feature:
- Renowned speakers sharing cutting-edge research and personal insights
- Interactive workshops exploring both physical and psychological recovery
- A dedicated exhibition space showcasing innovations in cardiac care
- An evening social gathering for informal connections and celebration
This conference isn’t just about looking back at what we’ve accomplished. It’s about strengthening our community to face the challenges and opportunities ahead. Every cardiac arrest survivor deserves to know they’re not alone.
Your Invitation to Join a Life-Changing Community
If you’re a cardiac arrest survivor, co-survivor, medical professional, or supporter, your presence at the “10 Years Together” conference could make all the difference—both for your journey and for someone attending their first SCA UK event.
Ten years ago, thirteen people took a chance to connect. Today, thousands of lives stand transformed because of that brave first step. Join us as we celebrate a decade of healing, connection, and resilience—and help write the next chapter of SCA UK’s remarkable story.
Registration and further details are available at scauk.org/10YT
After our first meet-up in February 2015, I realised I was not alone. It was the first time since my cardiac arrest the previous year that I had spoken face-to-face with someone who had experienced what I had. This was also true for my wife, who also happened to be my lifesaver. From that meet-up, the idea of SCA UK was born. Since then, we have achieved a considerable amount, primarily providing information, resources and support to others in a similar situation but also raising the profile of survivorship and the need for better post-discharge care. We are starting to get traction in this, and with the formation of the charity, I genuinely believe we have a bright future ahead and will make a significant difference in the lives of many who join our ranks.
Do you accept people who have lost their husband to a cardiac arrest, despite immediate cpr please?