Death of Lucky2BHere defibrillator charity founder Ross Cowie sparks flood of tributes
TRIBUTES are flooding in for the founder of a defibrillator charity credited with helping to save lives across the Highlands and islands.
The death of Ross Cowie, founder of Lucky2bHere, was announced earlier today on the charity’s social media. It has triggered scores of tributes to “a man who made a difference”.
The charity was involved in installing a defibrillator at Caberfeidh Shinty Club following a drama involving a referee whose life was saved following a cardiac arrest earlier year.
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The charity said: “It is with great sadness that the Lucky2BHere family announce the sudden death of our dear friend and founder of Lucky2BHere Ross Cowie.
“Ross died last night having been transferred to Raigmore. We extend our sincere condolences to Ross’s family and friends.”
Ross himself suffered from a genetic heart condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy.
His father died on the badminton court at the age of 40, his auntie died at the age of 18 and his uncle - who played football for Scotland - also died at an early age.
In December 2006, Ross suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. His life was saved due to the pure luck that an ambulance happened to be passing by and the skills of the crew and the life-saving equipment that they carried.
Ross subsequently established Lucky2BHere in the hope that it might give others the same chance.
It has made a tremendous difference across the Highlands and islands ever since.
Douglas MacDougall posted on the charity’s social media page: “Every dot on that map behind Ross is testament to his drive and enthusiasm to improve out of hospital cardiac arrest statistics.
“He made a difference. Honour to have known and argued with you. (I often gave up).”
He added: “We were lucky to here at the same time as you.”
Torcuil Crichton wrote: “What sad news. Ross was a true friend, he made an incredible contribution to Skye and the world beyond. If any of achieve a tenth of what he did across sport, health and our communities we will have lived very full lives.”
