THE parents of a 29-year-old autism support worker who died from Sudden Adult Death Syndrome are raising money to raise awareness of the condition.
Lesley and Steven Wallbank, of Northcliffe, Great Harwood, will complete next month’s seven-mile Rotary Club Great Charity Walk to raise funds for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).
The walk is on Sunday 10 May, while a fund-raising dinner-dance in memory of their late son Matthew will be held at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel the following Saturday, 16 May.
The memorial dinner, near the first anniversary of Matthew’s death, has been organised – among others – by his sister Rebecca and friend Eddie Whittle, who was with him on the morning that he died in a London hotel.
An inquest recorded a verdict of natural causes, with his death blamed on SADS – an irregular heart rhythm which claims up to 500 lives in the UK every year, predominantly among under-30s.
CRY raises awareness of the condition and arranges heart screenings.
Mum Lesley said: "CRY was very helpful to us and helped us know everything when Matthew died. It’s a little-known charity and we want to raise awareness of it so that other people don’t have to know what we are going through."
To sponsor Lesley nd Steven, visit www.justgiving.com/rotaryclubcharitywalk. For more details about CRY and the memorial dinner visit www.cry4matthew.com or to donate raffle or auction prizes ring Steven on 07531 962883.
l People are still being urged to join the Big Walk organised by Church and Oswaldtwistle Rotary Club and supported by the Observer.
Those who register before the end of April can save £4 of the normal £8 entry fee and any money raised in sponsorship then goes to their own chosen charities.
Coronation Street’s Julie Hesmondhalgh, who plays Hayley Cropper, will lead the walkers off at 9.30am.
This year’s new seven-mile circular route starts at the Junction 7 business park in Clayton-le-Moors and takes in varied scenery around the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.
There will be a £50 prize for the best fancy dress and refreshments will be available.
To register just ring Fred on 243965. For more information ring Lennie on 871020 or visit rotarycharitywalk.org.uk
