James as a Warrender pupil
The Charity CRY held its screening programme on Sunday, June 14th. at Warrender School. The reason the school was chosen as the venue was because James Markham, an ex pupil of the school, tragically lost his life to an undiagnosed cardiac condition in 2001 aged 21 years of age. His parents, Jeff & Sandra, requested that this special first memorial screening dedicated to James’ memory, could be hosted by their son’s primary school. Since his tragic loss, his parents have tirelessly been fundraising for the charity and have already raised over £30,000!
Hinemoa after her screening
I am delighted to report that all the appointments previously advertised were taken and there were ninety seven young adults who were screened. This cost the charity £75.00 per person to screen, so to run the event today it cost them £7,500 which was very generous of them. I was told by Hinemoa, 20 years of age, about her experience of the screening process. At first she was given an ECG (electrocardiogram), followed by an echocardiogram. She then had a consultation with a doctor who discussed with her the results of the graphs produced which showed her recorded heart rhythm. She felt reassured to be told that everything was normal.
Some of James’ school friends who attended the screening
Former classmates of James including Andy, David, Vicky, Will and Dave came to support the day’s event for their school friend and also volunteered. They were given a tour of their old primary school by teacher, Ms Healey, and were sharing funny stories about their time at Warrender whilst reminiscing.
Prior publication of the screening resulted in many of the Markham’s family and friends, as well as families from the wider community, attending this important event. This created a wonderful heart warming atmosphere which contributed to providing support for the young people present who were waiting to be screened and might have been anxious about their results. It was also an occasion to share stories and memories but also to celebrate the amazing work James’ family have done and also to share their experience with young people present who might encourage friends to take part in a screening.
Warrender certainly played an important role in informing the wider community of the work of CRY. Compared to other charities which raise awareness of preventing death in young people, this charity does not seem to be so well known. Hopefully more people now will visit their website which explains that, according to verified data, twelve young adults die each week from undiagnosed cardiac conditions.
Next academic year, Warrender School, would like to raise more funds for CRY and look forward to hosting another screening day. Ruislip Residents’ Association wish the school the best of luck.
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