Schools and organisations are encouraged to wear something red next Friday (February 15) to raise cash for children with congenital heart disease (CHD) – Northern Ireland’s most common birth defect.
Rock Red Friday is organised by Children’s Heartbeat Trust and encourages people to wear something red and donate to the work of the charity. This could be through a simple collection in your office or a fundraising event.
All funds raised will enable the charity to provide practical and emotional support to children and young people with congenital heart disease.
Rock Red Friday 2019 was launched by Niall Parfitt (4) and his sister Éabha (7).
Niall is just one of the hundreds of children supported by the charity. He was born in 2014 with Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (TAPVR).
Following a month in the Royal Victoria Hospital, Niall was flown by air ambulance to undergo open heart surgery in London.
Lynn Cowan, Fundraiser at Children’s Heartbeat Trust, said every year over 200 babies are born in Northern Ireland with congenital heart disease, many of whom will undergo open heart surgery and require lifelong treatment, care and support.
“February is heart month and to mark it we want you to rock red, one of the boldest and most exciting colours! Whether it’s your stripy socks, a fancy hat, a bright scarf or a bold jumper, it’s easy to Rock Red with your outfit and help to raise awareness and funds for the charity,” she said.
“We would love as many people to Rock Red this February and use the hashtag #RockRedFriday across their social media platforms. Anyone can take part and it’s never too late to sign up. All support no matter how big or small is greatly appreciated,” she added.
Children’s Heartbeat Trust works with Clark Clinic at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children to ensure that children with heart disease and their families receive the best care, treatment and support possible.
To find out more about Rock Red Friday and how you can help visit http://www.childrensheartbeattrust.org.