Heart Stopped for 60 Seconds: Runner's Miraculous Survival

A Sydney man's routine run turned into a near-death experience when his heart stopped for a full minute. Warren Williams, 64, a fit teacher and musician, collapsed during a coastal run, only to miraculously revive and continue. Doctors have deemed his survival extraordinary, especially given his diagnosis of atrial fibrillation and flutter years prior, conditions that previously led to a pacemaker implantation.

Williams, who was a 'poster boy of health' from a young age, had no prior warning signs before his 2010 diagnosis. Despite this, he continued an intensely active lifestyle. His latest incident in April 2021, where his heart completely ceased for 60 seconds, required a pacemaker-defibrillator. Medical specialists are amazed he recovered from an event that should have been fatal.

Now, Williams is using his profound experience to advocate for heart health. He coaches over 300 athletes and advises organizations like The Heart Foundation. His message is clear: regular heart check-ups are crucial, especially after age 40, regardless of one's fitness level, emphasizing that his survival defied all medical expectations.