A new free helpline is being launched to support families affected by sudden cardiac death

CRY Ireland are launching a new free helpline.

Photograph: Leon Farrell / Photocall Ireland

CRY Ireland is a charity which was set up to provide support to patients and families who have lost someone to sudden cardiac death.

Sudden cardiac death is a sudden, unexpected death caused by loss of heart function.

CRY stands for 'Cardiac Risk in the Young', as it is most common in people under the age of 35.

When a family goes through losing a member through sudden cardiac death, it can be hard to accept and cope with.

That's why CRY Ireland want to help support people affected.

They've launched a new all-island free helpline for families in Ireland to help them during the difficult time.

The helpline is also there to support those coping with a diagnosis or with the life-altering effects of a cardiac condition.

The CRY Helpline service is available between the following hours:

• Tuesdays & Thursdays: 7-9pm
• Wednesdays: 10am to 12 noon
• Sundays: 4-6pm

To reach the helpline, call either of the following freephone numbers:

• Republic of Ireland – 1800 714 080
• Northern Ireland/UK - 00 44 80 0640 6280

 

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Since 2002, CRY Ireland have been providing access for families across the whole island who've been bereaved by the sudden cardiac death of a young person.

They offer free screening and emotional support services.

As well as that, they support research into the prevention of sudden cardiac death.

Photograph: Leon Farrell / Photocall Ireland

And all of their services are provided for free.

The charity is a self-supporting registered charity with their funds coming from various fundraising events.

 

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Those funds are then put toward raising awareness of sudden cardiac death, providing counselling and toward their diagnostic centre.

Lucia Ebbs, CEO of CRY said that many of those working and volunteering at CRY have experienced the loss of a loved one to sudden cardiac death.

She said, "we truly understand the significance of having a listening ear and team of support around you, when coping with this loss.

"Grief has no limits and it shouldn’t be dealt with alone," she added.

Sports Broadcaster, Jacqui Hurley is a CRY Ambassador and she said helping to launch the new helpline is a "privilege".

 

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Having lost her brother suddenly in an accident, says she knows "how much it means to have a listening ear and a team of support around you." 

To find out more, or if you need support yourself, visit cry.ie.