CRY Ireland has launched a new freephone helpline to support families grieving the loss of a loved one to sudden cardiac death.
Up to 80 people under 35 die from SCD every year in Ireland and the new all-island helpline will offer support to those affected by these deaths.
It will also support those living with a lifestyle change because of a diagnosis of an inherited cardiac condition.
RTE sports broadcaster and CRY ambassador Jacqui Hurley sadly lost her brother Sean in a car accident when he was just 25 and has given her backing to the new service.
She said “After losing my brother Sean, I know how much it means to have a listening ear and a team of support around you.
"I would encourage anyone who might be coping with the loss of someone to sudden cardiac death or inherited cardiac condition, to give CRY a call. They truly understand what you are going through.”
CRY Ireland creates awareness of SCD and other inherited cardiac conditions.
The charity supports those who have been affected by these illnesses through the free access to cardiac assessments, bereavement counselling and family support programmes.
Lucia Ebbs, CEO of CRY said: "Many of us here at CRY, including our team of trained helpline volunteers have experienced the loss of a loved one to sudden cardiac death and we truly understand the significance of having a listening ear and team of support around you, when coping with this loss.
"Grief has no limits and it shouldn’t be dealt with alone. If you need someone to talk to, please don’t hesitate to the CRY Helpline from any of the 32 counties across Ireland."
The new service is available between the hours of 7-9pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10am to 12 noon on Wednesdays and 4-6pm on Sundays.
To call helpline please use either of the following freephone numbers:
Republic of Ireland – 1800 714 080, Northern Ireland/UK - 00 44 80 0640 6280
For more information visit cry.ie
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