Happy heart appeal lauched
More people in Ireland die from heart disease and stroke than any other cause of death and in Tipperary428 lives are lost to the disease annually. But the Irish Heart Foundation says many of these deaths can be prevented. Every day in Ireland 27 lives are lost to the disease and almost 300 new cases are diagnosed daily in this country.
By eliminating risk factors such as high blood pressure, raised cholesterol, obesity, physical inactivity and smoking, the Irish Heart Foundation says 80 percent of premature heart disease and stroke is preventable.
Launching their annual Happy Heart Appeal May 7th to 9th supported by 2FM’s Ryan Tubridy, Nicky Byrne and Fair City actress Leah Egan, the Irish Heart Foundation called for donations to grow the charity’s on-the-ground prevention programme so it can reach greater numbers of people at risk of this killer disease.
Supporting the appeal, Irish Heart Foundation ambassador and 2FM presenter Nicky Byrne said: “When you hear that 80% of heart disease is preventable, it sounds like a no-brainer to get checked to avoid a disease that can kill you. Too often we think, sure I feel fine I don’t need my blood pressure checked or I’ll go for that walk tomorrow. Well as I and my family know all too well, tomorrow is here today. I lost my father to heart attack a few years ago at just 60 years old. Nothing can prepare you for sudden loss and we still miss him every day. The Irish Heart Foundation’s prevention work is vital to detect early signs of heart disease and stroke and stop it before it claims lives too young. I hope everyone will support the Happy Heart Appeal this May and make a donation no matter how large or small.”
The iconic Happy Heart badges are on sale for €2 on street by Tipperary volunteers and the Irish Heart Foundation is delighted to have the support of Shaws and SuperValu which will have badges on sale nationwide. The public is also encouraged to text* Happy to 50300 to donate €4 to the appeal.
Despite the loss of a man, woman or
To support the Happy Heart Appeal text Happy to 50300 to donate €4 or donate online at www.irishheart.ie