A Decade In Durham! Leading Cardiac Charity Is Welcomed Back To The Heart Of The City To Mark Its 10 Annual Charity Walk In The North East

Tomorrow [Saturday October 5^th] will see charity supporters – many of whom will have been tragically affected by young sudden cardiac death in their family – take to the streets of Durham for the 10^th annual CRY Durham Walk, which to has raised around £75,000 for Cardiac Risk in the Young since its launch.

Local CRY supporter, David Jewell has volunteered at the event for the past three years. He was first made aware of CRY following the tragic and sudden death of his only son, Damien in 2001, aged just 28. Since David’s retirement in 2016, he has become an active and loyal campaigner for CRY and in recognition of support and commitment, was appointed the charity’s Regional Representative for Tyne and Wear.

David says; “Fellow bereaved dad, Jeff Morland, set up this important event in 2010 and, like me, knows the devastation of losing a son to young sudden cardiac death in his twenties. Jeff and all the other local volunteers who have helped the Durham Walk grow from strength to strength are so inspiring and I’m honoured to do whatever I can to help.”

He adds; “Once again, the route will take walkers through the City Centre, allowing us to make a real impact. We’d be delighted if other people would like to sign up as a Marshal or a volunteer. So, just get in touch with CRY – we’d love to hear from you!”

Every week in the UK, at least 12 young people (that is aged 35 and under) die suddenly from a previously undiagnosed heart condition. In 80% of these cases, there will have been no warning signs or symptoms, which is why CRY believes that screening is so vitally important. Indeed, CRY’s pioneering screening programme now tests over 30,000 young people aged 14 -35 every year.

Dr Steven Cox, Chief Executive of CRY, adds; “Over the past decade, we’ve always been made to feel so welcome by the people of Durham and the North East. Ever since we first became involved with Jeff, following the sudden death of his son Levon in 2002, we have been aware of huge compassion and support throughout the region.

“Our annual Durham Walk, now in its 10^th year, is just one example of an ongoing dedication to helping us spread the word about CRY’s important work in the prevention of young sudden cardiac death. We look forward to marking our association with the North East when our team returns to Durham city centre in just a few weeks’ time.”

The event begins at 11am, taking an 8km circular route, starting and finishing at Durham Amateur Rowing Club. The Walk includes magnificent views of the Wear Valley and Durham’s historic cathedral and castle. Please arrive at Durham Amateur Rowing Club, City Boathouse, Green Lane, Old Elvet, Durham DH1 3JU between 9.30am and 10am.