Fundraiser in memory of Rogart teenager Hamish Ross to meet £12k costs of cardiac screening sessions at Golspie High School in October
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
A CHARITY is to carry out screening for "hidden" heart disease in young people at a venue in East Sutherland in October.
Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) is offering 200 young people aged 14 to 35 the chance to be tested at Golspie High School on Saturday and Sunday, October 1-2.
The £12,000 overall costs of holding the screening sessions - with 100 slots available each day - is being met by a memorial fundraiser set up through CRY by Donald and June Ross of Acheilidh, Rogart.
The couple sadly lost their teenage son Hamish, a Golspie High School pupil, suddenly in July 2019. Hamish, a rising star in the karting world, had an undiagnosed heart condition.
At least 12 young people die every week in the UK of undiagnosed heart conditions, according to CRY.
So far the fundraiser stands at £17,000 and will be kept open.
Mrs Ross said she was amazed at how the fundraiser had “rollercoasted” with individuals and groups supporting it by holding a variety of events.
RELATED: Golspie's tribute to Hamish
Golspie man's leap year birthday boost for Hamish Ross Memorial Fund
Golspie school event will benefit memorial fund set up by family
Peaks run will raise funds for cardiac screening of young in Sutherland
Rogart teen remembered - Golspie school event will benefit memorial fund set up by family
The October screening is not exclusive to Golspie High School pupils, but is open to anyone within the age range stipulated.
You can register an interest in attending a session from September 5 by visiting testmyheart.org.uk. Anyone who does so will receive an email from CRY giving 24 hours' notice of bookings opening - but will still have to go online and make the booking. The screening involves a health questionnaire and ECG. Further tests can also take place on the day if necessary.
Mrs Ross said “With it been the first screening, it is going to be quite emotional but I am so glad to see it happen. It is something tangible that people who contributed to the fundraiser, can see. Being screened will give young people peace of mind.”
She appealed to anyone unable to keep their appointment to cancel it through CRY in advance. Each no-show will cost the fund £60.
