Around
230 young people were screened and the new Philips Mobile Unit
proved a great hit.
It was
kitted out with superb machinery, enabling the technicians to carry
out ECGs and when necessary Echocardiograms - and a doctor was on
hand in case any referrals were needed.
We listened
to so many stories and found it all very emotional - but realise even
more so that this screening does save lives.
The
screening was free due to fundraising efforts that have taken place
in Preston over the past few years and especially during my Mayoral
year.
We do need
to have this done as matter of course for all youngsters when they
reach 14 years old.
We were
delighted to have a visit from Ben Wallace MP who spared some time
to come and look over the unit and offer his support in Parliament.
The fact that Ruth Lowe (CRY's North West Divisional Representative)
has been able to arrange a screening initiative using equipment
provided by Philips Healthcare will do a great deal to raise the
profile of the efforts CRY is making to ensure that a proper
national screening service can be developed to try and prevent
vulnerable young people from falling victim to sudden cardiac death."
During
the afternoon Andrew Lonergan – the Preston North End goalkeeper -
came to be screened, as did Scott Wright – ex-Coronation Street star
and now Kerry Katona’s personal trainer. They were
both impressed by the Philips mobile unit and expressed their
support for CRY.
We would
like to offer this kind of screening event again in Preston but
funds will be needed before we can make any future arrangements.
Our thanks
go to Morrison’s for allowing this to take part in their car park -
an excellent venue; and my personal thanks to the wonderful and
dedicated staff who work for CRY.
Text courtesy of Councillor Christine Abram
and Fleishman Hillard Press Release.
