Over 1200 young people have been screened by CRY this year so far, but there is still much to do to encourage young people across Derry to go get screened.
That is the message from local CRY representative John Lundy as preparations are made for the next clinic in Coleraine on 7th and 8th of September.
‘We are very fortunate to have the screening at the University here in Coleraine twice a year and also in Derry City. I just wish more and more young people from this area would take the opportunity to come and get screened.’
John revealed a number of local clubs have been proactive in bringing their younger members along to get screened. And he pointed out that at every clinic there are people referred onwards for further diagnosis and medical checks.
‘We firmly believe the screening saves lives. The screenings are painless, quick and no cost.
‘There are young people who have serious heart conditions that have been diagnosed at CRY screening clinics. Because of the screening they have been able to receive treatment and continue to lead normal lives.
Sadly though, John points out that hasn’t always been the case.
‘Ian McCall, the father of John McCall the young Irish rugby player that died some years ago has described his son’s condition as a time bomb in his chest. He didn’t know he had the condition nor did his family.’
John points out in these situations the first symptom is often sudden death. CRY screening offers people aged 14-35 the opportunity to get screened by an experienced and qualified team.
‘At all of our clinics there is a cardiologist on hand to read the ECG from each person that has been screened. If anything shows up they immediately also get an Echo done which is like an ultrasound image of the heart. Any issues of concern from there are passed on immediately to the person's GP for further investigation by one of the local cardiac specialists.’
John added ‘ the presence of the cardiologist at the screen is very important both from the medical point of view and having a professional on hand to provide advice.’
From John the message is simple. ‘Go and get screened.’ He added:
‘We have seen it at first hand. Families never get over the death of a young person. It never leaves them, and they don’t get over it. They just try their best to live with it. Through screening we can help avoid that tragedy.
‘The worst case scenario is that screening reveals an irregularity. If that is the case, these conditions can be treated and managed. Young people aren’t lost to their family, they may have to take medication or undergo a medical procedure. But through screening they can continue to live their life with their family and friends.’
To book online: http://www.c-r-y.org.uk/ecg.htm
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