Biography
Warren Williams, also known as the 'Defib Runner', is an Australian endurance athlete running coach, entertainer and public speaker, who has overcome incredible health challenges. Despite being diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AF) in 2010, Warren continued to pursue his passion for running, even after suffering a massive cardiac arrest in 2021.
Warren’s remarkable story began when he discovered he had AF at the age of 49, despite being extremely fit and healthy. He underwent various treatments, including medication and a pacemaker, which allowed him to return to competitive running .
However, in 2021, Warren’s life took a dramatic turn when he collapsed during a run after a ventricular tachycardia (VT) episode causing a cardiac arrest leading to a collapsed artery, which caused a blockage in his heart. Miraculously, he survived the incident and after four corrective surgeries and weeks in intensive care, he was fitted with an implanted cardiac defibrillator.
Warren's wife Tracey says she struggled to process the possibility of being widowed at 59 but incredibly he survived, with the collapsed artery repaired with a stent and the pacemaker replaced with an implanted cardiac defibrillator.
Today, Warren continues to run, coach, and perform, inspiring others with his resilience and determination. He advocates for regular heart health checks and supports research organisations, such as the Heart Research Institute (HRI).
“My message is simple: even if you feel fit, get regular check-ups. I had no idea I had a heart condition.”