As most of the Rugby League family are aware, Danny Jones, of Keighley Cougars and Wales Rugby League died suddenly on the field of play in May 2015. This was a sudden cardiac death, many of the causes of which can potentially be identified with cardiac screening.

After a cardiac arrest the first seconds and minutes are vital and survival is much greater if there is a chance for early shock therapy, or defibrillation. Danny's wife, Lizzie Jones, has spearheaded a campaign through the RFL Benevolent Fund by setting up the Danny Jones Defibrillator Fund to raise funds for equipment that could prove the difference between life and death at Rugby League clubs across the UK. The aim is to provide assistance to hundreds of community clubs and junior teams across the country to purchase a defibrillator.

Lizzie, who reduced a Wembley crowd to tears and moved millions of TV viewers with an emotional performance at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, has today (Sunday February 14) launched the Danny Jones Defibrillator Fund named in honour of her late husband.

Defibrillators cost around £1,000 each and provide potentially life-saving treatment to anyone suffering a cardiac arrest.

For the majority of Danny's playing career, both a Keighley Cougars and with Wales, I have been his team doctor. I am also a heart specialist with a profound understanding as to how a sudden cardiac death can affect a family and loved ones. 

To support Lizzie and the great cause she is leading, I have challenged myself to complete a triathlon, but not just a small one. Ironman Mallorca is a 2.4 mile swim 🏊, 112 mile bike ride🚴 and a full marathon 26.2 mile run🏃.

Please help me to help Lizzie and this great cause by sponsoring me to raise enough money to purchase even more of these defibrillators. I might need one myself after this lot😅.

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