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Scott leads fight against sudden death syndrome

Posted by Lucy Proctor on Oct 20, 08 11:18 AM in Clubs/societies

Brentford FC boss Andy Scott has called on fans to back him in his campaign to get all young people screened for sudden death syndrome.

The Brentford manager, whose own career was cut short when he was diagnosed with a life-threatening heart disorder, said: "CRY's recent research shows that 12 young people a week are dying from heart conditions and this could be a very low estimate.

"It could easily be double that and that is more than leukaemia. It's a massive problem that needs to be highlighted and we are starting to get there with CRY's awareness and screening programmes."

The Bees boss visited the Houses of Parliament last Wednesday as part of his work as patron for charity CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young).

The charity recently organised a mobile screening unit at Brentford and all the players were screeened in one afternoon.

"If we can get Brentford fans to encourage others to be aware of this and push for screening in schools then we can help save young lives," he told Westside Community Radio ahead of Saturday's game against Aldershot. "A screening costs £35 which is less than the cost of a pair of trainers or football boots. For this small sum, we can help to prevent a major tragedy for a family."

For more information visit www.C-R-Y.org.uk or www.brentfordfc.co.uk.

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