Emma Green runs Sydney City2Surf to honor father's memory

Emma Green, a 19‑year‑old from Ashtonfield, Australia, is preparing to run the City2Surf race in Sydney on August 9. She entered the event to honor her father, Kevin Green, who died at age 53 after a major aortic replacement surgery for Marfan syndrome. Kevin had suffered a spinal stroke during the operation, became paraplegic and spent 190 days in hospital before his death.

Emma says running helps her process grief and she hopes the race will raise awareness of cardiac health, the importance of regular cardiovascular activity, and the link between gum disease and heart disease. She will wear custom shirts, and her family plans to support her on race day, using the fundraiser to promote patient care and heart‑health education.