Friends of a young man who tragically died in his sleep have raised nearly £7K for a sudden death charity in a 10K run.
Tom Glattback, of Buckhurst Way in Woodford Green, and 15 other friends, ran the British 10K London run on July 12 in memory of Craig Lobo, who died from Sudden Arrythmic Death Syndrome (SADS) in December 2013, aged 22.
The friends from Woodford Green's Trinity Catholic High School and Chigwell's West Hatch High School, used to meet weekly and play football in Repton Park, in Manor Road, Woodford Bridge.
They are raising money for charity SADS UK, which funds research into the syndrome, provides cardiac equipment and works to introduce defibrillators widely in schools and the community for use in a cardiac arrest emergency.
Footballer Fabrice Muamba is the most famous victim of the condition, after he collapsed on the pitch in 2012, though he was saved through the immediate use of a defibrillator.
Mr Glattback, 24, said: “For those who didn't get to meet Craig, he was a true gentleman.
“He had time for everyone, and approached life with a smile on his face.
“He always bounced back from anything that would get him down, and no doubt would have become a great success in life.
“Craig had many friends which is a testament to his loving character.
“Whilst there is nothing anybody can do to bring our friend back, we will keep his memory alive for the rest of our days.
“Gone but never forgotten.
“We ran the British 10k London Run to support SADS UK and prevent another tragic loss of life.”
Sandra Lobo, Craig’s mother, posted on Facebook a message in support of the fundraisers.
She said: “I would like to thank everyone who has so very kindly donated towards one of the causes very dear to us.
“As we have experienced Craig’s, passing away from SADS, we know the heartache that the family goes through.
“The funds raised will help provide equipment or go towards research into preventing the heartache of another family.”
A total of £6,850 has been raised so far by the group, and further donations can be made here.
The group ran the British 10K on July 12, Tom Glattback pictured sixth from right.
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