Hibs’ long serving defender Lewis Stevenson has made a significant donation to charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).
Lewis celebrated his testimonial year in 2016-17, with a series of events including a testimonial dinner and a friendly match against Sunderland.
A number of charities have benefited from the proceeds, including £500 gift vouchers for the 23 charities linked to Leith Links, as well as the Bradley Lowery Foundation and Helping Hands.
CRY is the latest beneficiary, receiving a cheque for £40,000 in memory of David and Jenni Paul.
Since its formation in 1995 CRY has been working to reduce the frequency of young sudden cardiac death (YSCD). CRY supports young people diagnosed with potentially life-threatening cardiac conditions and offers bereavement support to families affected by YSCD.
In 2014 Hibernian Academy player David Paul sadly passed away from at the age of 18, having suffered from ischaemic heart disease, a disease characterised by a reduced blood supply to the heart. David’s sister Jenni had passed away in similar circumstances in 2008, aged 16.
Lewis said: “I am pleased to be able to hand over the cheque to CRY in memory of Jenni and David Paul.
“David’s loss was very difficult for us all to deal with at the time – he was a bright and talented young man and we were all affected by his passing.
“Supporters showed great generosity at the testimonial events and they deserve the credit for the donation – without that support it wouldn’t have been possible.
“Hopefully the donation will help CRY with the valuable work they do.”
Gordon Paul, father to David and Jenni, said: “We are very grateful to Lewis for the generous contribution – it’s overwhelming and a touching tribute to David and Jenni.
“Our heartfelt thanks go to Lewis for his benevolence, which will ensure the continuation of the great work that CRY do to support families like ours.”
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
