Ruby runs for Rob to thank the hospitals that gave her family a second chance.

Ruby Jones is about to take on the Brighton Marathon this Sunday, 6 April, in an effort to say thank you to the teams at Nottingham City Hospital who helped save her husband Rob’s life after a sudden cardiac arrest.

Rob, 36, is one of our fantastic charity volunteers who helps support Nottingham’s hospitals and represent the charity at events. But it was during a family emergency last year that Rob experienced just how life-changing the care of these hospitals can be. On the morning of 25 June 2024, Rob, who was previously fit and healthy, suddenly collapsed at home from a cardiac arrest. Thankfully, Ruby was quick to react, performing life-saving CPR on Rob until the East Midlands Ambulance Service arrived and rushed him to King’s Mill Hospital. From there, Rob was transferred to Nottingham City Hospital, where he received further treatment, including surgery to fit an S-ICD (a device that helps regulate heart rhythms). 

After a month in hospital, Rob was able to return home to recover, thanks to the amazing work of the hospital teams.

Ruby, a personal trainer, is running the marathon to raise funds for both Nottingham City Hospital, where Rob received his life-saving care and surgery and Sherwood Forest Hospitals where Rob was first taken by ambulance. Her goal is to raise £2,000 for each hospital – to support the teams that helped Rob. 

Rob couldn’t be prouder of Ruby’s efforts. He said, “In my time of need, Ruby was not only there to provide lifesaving CPR but continued to shield our son Albert from what was an incredibly traumatic experience. Her bravery, determination, and mindset to succeed is second to none, and you can see that reflected in her marathon training. She’s an amazing wife, mum, and an all-round incredible human being.”

He continued, “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Ruby’s quick thinking and the exceptional care I received at both hospitals. The doctors, nurses, support staff, and volunteers will always hold a special place in my heart for what they did for me.”

Ruby’s marathon run is more than just a personal challenge – it’s a heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a part in saving her husband’s life. She said, “This is the least I can do to say thank you. From those who rushed to my aid in the early minutes, to the teams who looked after Rob for weeks in hospital, and the doctors who fitted him with the device that gives him the confidence to live life to the fullest – they’ve all played a huge part in not just saving Rob’s life but saving our family.”

Ruby’s fundraising has been a huge success so far, and with just a little more to go, she’s almost hit her £4,000 target - £2000 for each hospital. You can still help by donating to her JustGiving page and the money raised will go directly to the hospitals that gave Rob a second chance at life.

We want to thank Ruby for her incredible fundraising and Rob, who continues to volunteer for the charity and help make a difference.