Respected Canberra journalist Louise Maher narrowly avoided a major heart attack and is now urging other women not to miss the more subtle signs of life-threatening heart disease.

She’s also encouraging Canberrans to take on the inaugural Coastrek Canberra event in March around Lake Burley Griffin to raise money in support of much-needed research into women’s experience with heart disease.

Women don’t always experience the typical crushing chest pain that is associated with a heart attack.

Ms Maher, 62, considered herself fit and healthy and in 2014 initially experienced what seemed to be minor symptoms: heartburn after eating certain foods and breathlessness during uphill walks.

Despite these symptoms, initial tests including an electrocardiogram (ECG) and stress tests indicated no apparent issues. Even tests for a stomach ulcer returned clear.

However, Ms Maher’s family history of heart disease – her father suffered a heart attack in his 40s – prompted her to investigate further.

It was a ‘sliding doors’ moment that likely saved her life. A subsequent angiogram revealed three significant blockages in her coronary arteries. This immediately led to the insertion of three stents, averting a potentially fatal heart attack. Her cardiologist described Ms Maher as a “walking time bomb.”

Ms Maher’s case is a powerful reminder of the importance of educating women that chest pain is not the only symptom they should be concerned about when it comes to heart health. She has since joined the ACT Heart Foundation Advisory Board and has become an ambassador for Coastrek’s new Canberra event which will take place in March 2024.

Ms Maher urged Canberrans to gather a team of four and enter Coastrek, with registrations closing by 4th February, 2024.

“Coastrek is a fun and fantastic way to raise funds for female heart disease research while looking after your own heart health through the power of exercise, healthy eating, and social connection,” she said.

Coastrek Canberra is on 15 March, 2024. The newest Coastrek boasts less sand than the classic locations but will bring the same vibrant Coastrek energy to the heart of Australia’s bush capital.

Get your team of four together for an epic trek around Canberra’s iconic Lake Burley Griffin where cultural landmarks combine with natural bushland surrounds and a stunning Autumn backdrop.

Choose either a 30km full-day adventure or a Twilight 20km trek crossing the finish line at dusk, and hike for healthy hearts with all the same magic we’re known for – fun, fitness, friends and fundraising, all in support of the Heart Foundation.

Visit www.coastrek.com.au for more information or to register.