Free heart screenings in memory of Sheffield schoolgirl who died in her sleep

More that 200 free heart screenings will be carried out today in memory of a Sheffield schoolgirl who died in her sleep.

Alex Reid, a former student at Sheffield High School, died suddenly the night before sitting her final GCSE exam from a previously undiagnosed heart condition in 2012.

Alex Reid, a former student at Sheffield High School, died suddenly the night before sitting her final GCSE exam, aged 16.

placeholder image — Alex Reid, a former student at Sheffield High School, died suddenly the night before sitting her final GCSE exam, aged 16.

She was aged 16.

Her father, GP John Reid, is keen to raise awareness of undiagnosed heart conditions in young people.

As a result, he's enlisted the help of leading heart charity, Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY) to hold the 3rd ECG screening clinic at the Kiveton Park Surgery this weekend (15/16 October) where young people, aged between 14 and 35, can be tested.

According to CRY, a simple and quick ECG test could save the lives of the 12 apparently fit and healthy young people that die each week in the UK from undiagnosed heart conditions.

"So far, the Alex Reid Memorial fund has raised £70,000, with some of this money also going towards research and general awareness raising of young sudden cardiac death, as well screening. But none of this would be possible without the generosity of our friends, family and the local community in terms of both time and money."

An ECG (electrocardiogram) test is a simple way to identify the vast majority of abnormalities that can cause sudden deaths in young people.

The test is quick, non-invasive and painless and if necessary a further echocardiogram (ultrasound scan of the heart) can be taken on the same day to provide further clarity or reassurance.

Anyone aged between the age of 14 and 35 can register to have a free cardiac screening at venue local to them by simply logging onto http://www.testmyheart.org/