Teen Emma who died 13 years ago is remembered by hockey coach who ran in her honor – South London News

By Davina Hyde

A hockey coach is running 13 half-marathons in 13 days to mark the 13th anniversary of the death of a teenage girl who died in her sleep from sudden cardiac arrest.

Mark Atherton, 45, of Godstone Road, Croydon, is running half marathons across south London over the next 13 days to raise much-needed funds for Heart Risk in Young People (CRY).

Emma Broad, who died in her sleep aged 16, was one of Mr Atherton’s international hockey stars, whom he coached at his previous club, Surbiton Hockey Club, 13 years ago.

The Director of Hockey at London Wayfarers Hockey Club wants to raise awareness of the potentially life-threatening heart conditions that seemingly fit and healthy youngsters can have.

Mr Atherton said: “Emma was a special talent and a wonderful girl whose infectious smile had the ability to turn any day into a good one.

“I’m really humbled by the support and generosity people have shown, which I know means a lot to Emma’s family and to have raised much needed funds for the charity, Cardiac Risk in the Young, who do great work amazing trying to prevent sudden cardiac death in young people through awareness, screening and research and supporting affected families.

“It was a privilege to take on this challenge on Emma’s behalf and fantastic to have so many people together offering encouragement, donating and remembering Emma.”

The South London hockey community has come together to support his runs through South London, which includes him through some of the London Wayfarers grounds in Clapham, Streatham, Battersea, Wimbledon and Dulwich.

Dr Steven Cox, chief executive of the charity, CRY said: “Every week, 12 apparently fit and healthy young people (aged 35 and under) in the UK die suddenly from a previously undiagnosed heart condition. Each of these deaths sends shockwaves through families, schools, sports clubs and entire communities – these young people are in the prime of their lives, often in top form, just like Emma was.

“It is important to remember that in 80% of these cases there will be no signs or symptoms of a heart defect until it is too late, which is why CRY believes screening is so important – particularly for those involved in regular activities, physical activity. As such, CRY now tests approximately 27,000 young people each year, aged between 14 and 35.”

To find out more about Mark Atherton’s challenge and to donate to his JustGiving fundraising page, please visit: JustGiving 13 in 13 fundraising page https://www.justgiving.com/page/13in13

Top Image: Emma Broad (Image: Courtesy of Broad Family)

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