Tragic heart death family’s cash mission

Dad-of-three Lee David Rawlings, 43, died suddenly in June after suffering an aortic dissection.

Former boxer Lee, who was known for his charity work, was engaged to Sarah Hallett’s sister Kat - now Sarah and her husband William are behind a day-long event to raise funds for Heart Research UK - charity that funds pioneering research into the prevention, treatment and cure of heart disease.

Sarah, 32, a Tele Appointer at The Planning Guide in Blackpool, said: “Lee committed so much of his time to his friends, family and to charity.

“We want the event to bring everyone together to remind everyone how much Lee touched our lives.”

The event takes place on Sunday August 30 starting at South Shore Cricket and Squash Club on Common Edge Road. The day will be packed with fun-filled entertainment including; a DJ, two bouncy castles, stalls, magicians, as well as special performances from local musicians and bands.

There will also be a raffle and an auction where a number of special prizes can be won.

The evening event will be held at the Gallant Pioneer in Blackpool where all families are welcome until 10pm, when the event will then be adults-only.

There will be a band perfoming, as well as food and auctions.

Sarah and William, of Garden Terrace, are hoping that the event will raise as much awareness as possible of the devastating effects of heart disease and the work of Heart Research UK which has recently funded a £93,000 study at King’s College London using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and simulation methods aiming to develop a sophisticated, accurate and relevant virtual model of the diseased aorta in patients with aortic dissection.

This would allow patient-specific plans to be made about how and when it is best to treat aortic dissection.

The funds raised at the event will also be donated to Erskine Care, Scotland, a care provider for ex- servicemen and women, which is another charity close to the family’s heart.