Limerick dad recalls losing his son to 'SADS'

A LIMERICK dad has spoken about losing his son to Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome, more commonly known as ‘SADS.’

In June 2017, young scientist Kevin Hayes had life ahead of him as he was finishing his PhD thesis. Inexplicably, the young man suddenly died at the age of 26.

Sudden Arrhythmic Death Syndrome is an unexplained heart condition that can cause death in young people who appear to be healthy and fit. Each year, it is estimated that between 70 and 100 people, under the age of 40, die from the syndrome.

Speaking to Dermot and Dave on Today FM, his dad, James Hayes, recalled: “On Wednesday the 24th of June 2017, I was having an ice cream with him outside the student shop here on campus in the University of Limerick. And on the Thursday, I was helping to carry his corpse down from his accommodation on campus.”

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According to James, even though his son was the picture of health, the post-mortem attributed his death to SADS.

"He was somebody that didn’t drink a whole pile, didn’t smoke, he liked cooking, he ate healthy – all of that craic. Basically, the electric signals to your heart just stop, and that’s it – game over," said James.

Described as “the full package,” Kevin was highly intelligent, a great communicator and was genuinely interested in people. “He was a bit of a charmer as well,” added James.

"We were pals, any parent would have been proud to have him. Everybody grieves differently, but as a parent, you are empty. Your life is just shattered. Part of me is gone and it’s so difficult to even put into words or explain."

In memory of James’ son and his dear friend, Matthew Halpin, is doing something "quite mad."

In support of Heart House for SADs testing, Matthew will embark on Marathon Des Sables in April 2023, the toughest foot race in the world. 

To donate, click here. 

The 250km multi-stage race will take place in the Sahara desert, where temperatures can reach 50 degrees Celsius.

"We're flabbergasted that he would take on such a task in Kevin's memory. It’s wonderful, we’d love to see him do well," concluded James.