Ipswich family's mission to save young lives after losing George, 22

George, from Ipswich, died suddenly and unexpectedly in May 2023 at the age of 22. He had no known medical conditions, no symptoms, and lived a normal, healthy life. He had recently begun his career on the IT service desk at Ipswich Borough Council and was looking forward to the future.

His death devastated his family and friends. In the years since, they have dedicated themselves to supporting the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) and raising awareness of the importance of heart screening for young people.

A hidden danger

Every week in the UK, at least twelve apparently fit and healthy young people die from undiagnosed heart conditions. In around 80% of these cases, there are no warning signs or symptoms before tragedy strikes.

George's case reflects this pattern. There was nothing to suggest anything was wrong, and no chance for his family to intervene before it was too late.

CRY believes that everyone aged between 14 and 35 should have the opportunity to be screened. Around one in every 300 young people screened is found to have a potentially life-threatening heart condition. The charity's screening programme is heavily subsidised, with public screening events funded by families who have lost loved ones to sudden cardiac death, meaning screenings are free for those who attend.

Walking in George's memory

On Sunday, 28 June, for the third consecutive year, George's family and friends joined more than 1,000 supporters taking part in the CRY Heart of London Bridges Walk. The 6.5-mile route through London crosses iconic bridges including Tower Bridge and the Millennium Bridge, passing landmarks such as the Shard, St Paul's Cathedral and the Tower of London.

The annual event raises awareness of young sudden cardiac death, supports bereaved families and funds future heart screening programmes. For those who have experienced loss, the walk offers a chance to connect with others in similar situations, many wearing personalised T-shirts, banners or back-signs in remembrance of loved ones.

Bringing screening to Ipswich

The group is also working to bring a free CRY screening event to Ipswich, giving local young people aged 14 to 35 the opportunity to be tested for potentially life-threatening heart conditions.

They have already raised £4,800 towards the cost and are aiming to raise a further £2,400 to fund a free screening event in Ipswich for up to 100 young people.

Donations towards George's memorial fund can be made at c-r-y.org.uk/george-lavery.

In George's words, through his family

George's family said: "Nothing can bring George back, but if sharing his story encourages even one young person to be screened, or helps prevent another family experiencing the heartbreak we have endured, then his legacy will continue to save lives. We want every young person to know that these conditions often have no symptoms, and that screening could make all the difference."

The family hopes George's story will encourage more people to learn about cardiac screening, support CRY's work, and help reduce the number of young lives lost to undiagnosed heart conditions each year.

The bottom line

George Lavery lived an ordinary, healthy life right up until the moment he did not. His family cannot change that, but they are determined that his story might change the odds for someone else.

For more information about cardiac screening for young people, visit www.testmyheart.org.uk.

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