Two Armagh brothers are preparing to take on the famous Seven Peaks Challenge in memory of a beloved cousin who died suddenly at just 18 years of age.
Jamie and Kris Calvert will don their boots and all-weather jackets on May 17 to take on the hefty Mourne Mountains trek, taking in seven of Northern Ireland’s highest peaks in a single day.
They do so to raise awareness and vital funds for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).
CRY works to prevent sudden cardiac deaths in young people by raising awareness, funding research, providing heart screening programmes, and supporting families affected by these tragedies.
In the UK, they say at least 12 young people – aged 35 and under – die every week from undiagnosed heart conditions… many of whom otherwise appeared fit and healthy.
Unfortunately, Jamie and Kris know all too well the devastating effects of sudden cardiac death.
In July 2015, their cousin Ally passed away suddenly at the age of 18 having suffered a cardiac arrest.
Launching a GoFundMe page to support their challenge, Jamie explained: “Ally suffered from an undiagnosed significantly enlarged heart which caused sudden arrhythmia death syndrome.
“This had a detrimental impact on ourselves, family circle, and the wider community. A death at this age is heart-breaking and CRY are entirely dependent on the funds raised by its supporters.”
They will begin bright and early on the morning of May 17, and are praying for good weather!
Five years ago, the pair raised £3,000 for the charity with their three peaks hike and so this time they are hoping to best it in both miles and money!
Their funding page is currently set with a humble target of just £300 to the benefit of CRY, however, they have already raised more than £200… and they hope this will only continue to climb.
Of the generosity shown, Jamie adds: “Any support, big or small, would mean a huge amount to us and will help motivate us every step of the way. Thank you so much for your encouragement and generosity!”
You can make a contribution to their Seven Peaks Challenge here and help support the work of CRY.
