Back in August 2018, we, at Idris Davies School received the news that every teacher dreads. One of our pupils, Jake Pickford, a talented, popular and hardworking student, had suddenly passed away. What was even more heart- wrenching was the fact that he should have been doing what every other 16 year was getting ready to do at that time, preparing to collect his GCSE results the following week. 

Jake’s loss at such a young age was an unimaginable tragedy for his family and us, his school family. No family should have to suffer this sort of loss. That’s why 18 members of IDS staff are running the Cardiff Half Marathon in Jake’s memory and to raise money for ‘The Jake Anthony Pickford Memorial Fund’ which supports the charity, C.R.Y- Cardiac Risk in the Young. The charity is working to prevent young sudden cardiac deaths through awareness, screening and research, and supporting affected families. Our fundraising will help young people in our area to have possibly life-saving heart screening. 

Please support this amazing cause. It won’t be easy but we are doing it for you, Jake. 

Every week in the UK at least 12 apparently fit and healthy young people die of undiagnosed cardiac conditions. With your donation, CRY can reduce the frequency of young sudden cardiac death (YSCD) by working with cardiologists and family doctors to establish good practice and appropriate screening facilities to promote and protect the cardiac health of our young. By supporting CRY you will help save young lives from these potentially fatal cardiac conditions. See how your support can help by visiting www.c-r-y.org.uk