A CHARITY gala held in memory of a young Co Derry GAA player who died suddenly has raised £23,000 for life-saving heart research.
The family of Kevin King (22) from Eglington, who died from an unknown heart condition in November 2016, said they hoped the money will help "save the lives of other young people".
A promising Gaelic footballer, he played for St Mary's GAC, Slaughtmanus as well as Tamnaherin Celtic FC. He had been in goals in an indoor game with friends in Campsie when he collapsed and died in November 2016.
Following his death, his parents John and Margaret, and brother Martin, learned he had arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) - an inherited heart condition that damages the muscle of the heart and lead to sudden death.
It is estimated at least one young person, aged under 35, dies every month from an undiagnosed heart condition here.
Since his death, his family have become involved in raising funds for the British Heart Foundation Northern Ireland (BHF NI) to help research into heart conditions.
Among the events organised was the King of Hearts Ball, which was held in May 4 - two days before what have been Kevin’s 25rd birthday.
Ireland rugby star Stephen Ferris, Kerry GAA legend Tomás Ó Sé, Olympic medal winning boxer Paddy Barnes and boxer Tyrone McCullough were among those to attend the event at Titanic Belfast.
The proceeds from the ball brings the King family’s total fundraising since Kevin's death to more than £80,000.
Kevin’s brother, Martin King, said: "We are truly overwhelmed by the support we have had from the community since Kevin’s death.
"To think we have raised £80,000 to fund BHF research that will save the lives of other young people is amazing.
"We’d like to thank everyone who has supported us and been so generous with their time and money.
"It was a fantastic evening."
Fearghal McKinney, head of BHF NI, said: "Without the support of brave families like the Kings we wouldn’t be able to fund finding a cure for heart disease.
"The gala ball was huge success.
"It was a pleasure to see our local communities come out in force to raise money and celebrate Kevin’s life.
"The King family and friends and his wider community have shown such generosity of spirit and we can’t thank them enough for everything they have done to fund lifesaving heart research."
