‘Jack had so much ahead of him... He was loved by everyone’
The heartbreaking sudden death of a young Navan man last May has inspired a major fundraiser in his memory.
Friends and family of Jack Gibney, who were devastated by his sudden death, have rallied round to honour him with a five-a-side football tournament.
The tournament, which will take place on Saturday 25th July in the MDL, will raise funds for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), whose mission is to prevent Sudden Cardiac Death in young persons in Ireland and supporting families affected.
Jack Gibney was just 20 years old when his sudden death devastated his family and local community. The much-loved son, brother, friend and teammate was described as “fun loving, always laughing and joking, but wise beyond his years.”
His tragic death was the second horrific blow to his family in just days. The family were organising the funeral of Jack's grandfather when Jack died in his sleep suddenly from a cardiac issue.
His brother Ross made the shocking discovery. “Our grandfather had died on the Friday and we were organising his funeral. I was out that morning and came back about lunchtime. The house was unusually quiet, Jack would usually be up making a mess or have friends there. I thought it was strange.”
Jack had passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday 31st May.
“We have been told he had a heart attack in his sleep. That is all we know at the moment. He had no known underlying conditions, he hadn't been sick, he was at the gym all the time.”
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It was a traumatic time for Ross, his other brother, Ben and their parents, Rob and Tanya, grandmother, Bernie and Jack's nephew Jude.
“I had to ring the rest of the family, the ambulance and the gardai. Both the gardai and the ambulance service were great.
“It has been very difficult for all of us, it is very tough, but especially for Mum and Dad. No parents should have to lose their child,” he said.
Jack is also survived by Ross’s partner Codi, Ben’s partner Alex, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives and a large circle of good friends.
Friends and family have now come together to hold the football tournament fund-raiser. Jack's friend, Mark Kettle, explained it will take place at MDL on 25th July with kick off at 11am. “We are hosting 32 teams of seven players at €70 per team, we have a registration form for those and also a separate link to accept donations from those who wish to contribute without playing.
“All proceeds from the event will go directly to CRY, who have approved our event and are happy to partner with us on it.
“We’re currently seeking support from local businesses to sponsor prizes for tournament winners.
“Through this event, we hope to celebrate Jack's life while raising vital funds for CRY Ireland (Cardiac Risk in the Young), a charity dedicated to the prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death in the young and supporting affected families. Every donation, no matter the size, helps support this important cause and is greatly appreciated.
“Join us on Saturday 25th July at MDL, Navan for a day of football, community and fundraising in memory of Jack. Featuring a 32-team tournament, family entertainment, food, prizes and more, all proceeds will go to CRY, supporting their vital work,” Mark said.
CRY provides supports to patients and families who have lost someone to sudden cardiac death. The charity provides access to free clinical assessment and management to all families of a young person who are living with an inherited cardiac condition or have suffered, or are at risk of, a sudden cardiac death.
It also provides a Family Support Programme, offering free access to listening volunteers, mentors and bereavement specialists. CRY provide access to information and networks and supports research into the causes and prevention of sudden cardiac death, in collaboration with other like minded bodies.
Jack grew up in Athlumney Castle, went to school in St Paul's Primary School and then St Patrick's Classical School, played with Parkvilla his whole life and was about to graduate in a Business degree from the National College of Ireland.
His funeral and the weeks since have been very difficult for his family.” It was devastating, but we had great support from the community and all his friends. His friends organised a balloon release at the local pitch in Johnstown. It was lovely. He was greatly loved by everybody,” said Ross.
“He had so much ahead of him. He had just got his driving licence and had finished college, He had been away on holiday with us and with his mates. Everything was looking good for him. He was always happy, messing and joking. We have such great memories. It is better than we knew him for 20 years, than not at all,” he said.
To register a team to play in the tournament, please contact Mark - 085 728 8447 or Conor - 083 024 5480 via WhatsApp or at https://forms.gle/TtDn9f4PoJHGR3vXA
Donations can also be made at https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/markkettle