During my primary care placement, I met a man living with long‑term heart problems who is now in permanent atrial fibrillation. Over ten years he had undergone many treatments, and he spoke very openly about how his condition has reshaped his life. Before his treatment he was an avid runner and cyclist and now feels anxious even about climbing the stairs too quickly. This loss of confidence has greatly restricted his freedom and affected his wellbeing, forcing him to find new ways of coping.

His story had a strong impact on me. As someone who values running and regular exercise, I found it easy to empathise with the part of his life he had lost. It made me reflect on how closely physical and mental health are connected, and how challenging I would find similar limitations. This experience influenced my choice to use running as a central symbol in my Strava art.

For me, running represents prevention, resilience, and taking charge of your own health.