The family of Kirkcaldy football scout Robert Rowan is urging people to “clock up some serious miles” in his memory.
Robert was only 28 when he died of a heart condition in November 28. He was employed as technical director with premier league side Brentford FC at the time and was previously a scout with Celtic and the Scotland national team. The Fifer was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy when he was just 15. And his family believes better heart screening among young people across the UK could save and improve lives.
Now they are raising cash to pay for screening sessions in Robert’s name, including one in his home town of Kirkcaldy and another in Dundee.
Robert’s wife Suzanne, brother Gary and three friends have launched the A-K-A-DAY in May challenge. It aims to inspire people of all ages and abilities to get out and move for at least one kilometre every day of the month. Participants can cover the distance any way they choose in return for a £15 donation to CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young).
The charity raises awareness of sudden adult death syndrome and helps pay for ECG screenings.
Suzanne said: “Robert was a kind, generous, loving husband, son, brother and friend. “But above all he was an amazing individual. “He was ambitious and worked hard to build his career within the football world.”
Suzanne added: “Whilst this kind of tragedy is rare, it is estimated that around 12 people under the age of 35 die each week in the UK from undiagnosed heart conditions. “The aim of this event is to raise awareness of the prevalence of cardiac deaths in young people.”
Heart screenings will take place in Kirkcaldy on July 9 and 10, and in Dundee on September 24 and 25.
Suzanne said: “If we can stop one family losing someone the way we lost Robert it will be worth it.”
