Dan Cook died in May 2024 from a sudden cardiac arrest when he was just 10 weeks away from getting married.
His family set up a fund and called on the Government to screen younger people for hidden heart conditions, which are not widely available for those under the age of 35.
A group of Dan’s friends tackled the 4,413ft Ben Nevis, in Scotland, to raise funds for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), which supports a screening programme and further research.
Family friend, Lisa-Maries Dawkins scaled the mountain alongside her husband Matty.
She said: “Climbing Ben Nevis for Dan was an unforgettable challenge. In the UK, at least 12 young people, aged 14-33, unexpectedly die each week so we wanted to raise funds and awareness for cardiac screening on the young via the CRY charity. We’d like to thank everyone who supported us and made a donation, and ask people if they can too, no matter how small, it all helps a great deal.”
Meanwhile, the first screening days will take place on June 30 and July 1 at High Tunstall College of Science, where 100 young people, aged between 14 and 35, will receive potentially life-saving heart checks
through CRY.
Dan’s family has completed 12 fundraising challenges throughout the year, supported by businesses, friends, work colleagues and members of the Hartlepool community.
Together they have raised enough money not only to fund the first screening event, but also to continue working towards future screenings.
Daniel’s mum, Lesley Perkins, said: “The support from the people of Hartlepool has been incredible. Every donation, challenge and message of support has helped make these screenings possible, and we know Daniel would be proud of what has been achieved in his memory.”
Readers can make a donation at www.c-r-y.org.uk/dan-cook.
Author: Ian
Reporter and author of Pop Life, covering all things news, music and local events.