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The heart-wrenching stories of two young men who tragically lost their lives to sudden cardiac arrest have ignited a powerful call for change in the UK. Seventeen-year-old Adam Ankers and 20-year-old Matthew Dunning, both athletic and seemingly healthy, are among the estimated 600 individuals under 35 who succumb to this silent threat annually. Their bereaved families are now advocating for a national cardiac screening programme to help save lives.
The Silent Threat of Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Adam Ankers, a promising footballer, suffered a cardiac arrest on 31 January 2024 during a match for Wycombe Wanderers’ under-19 team. Complaining of chest pains, he collapsed on the pitch. Despite the presence of a defibrillator nearby, it remained unused, a critical oversight that proved fatal. Adam was rushed to hospital but succumbed to brain damage caused by lack of oxygen, passing away on 4 February.
His father, Alastair Ankers, expressed his anguish, stating, “He shouldn’t be dead. He was failed by the system.” An inquest revealed that neither the coaches nor emergency services recognised the signs of cardiac arrest, and the coroner highlighted this failure as a significant factor in Adam’s death. Alastair has since joined forces with the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), pushing for reforms including mandatory training for coaches and referees across all levels of football.
A Shared Tragedy: Matthew Dunning’s Story
Matthew Dunning, who was studying physics at the University of Surrey, experienced a similar fate. In September 2025, he suddenly collapsed in his student accommodation, leaving his family in a state of disbelief. Matthew, an active young man who had previously passed health checks, had no known heart conditions. His parents, Marie and Simon, describe their loss as “the invisible killer,” noting that many families are unaware of the risks posed by undiagnosed heart conditions.
Despite extensive tests conducted after Matthew fainted during a school rugby match in 2022, no underlying issues were identified. His parents expressed their frustration, saying, “He was that active and fit… I just don’t understand why he’s been cheated.” The absence of a conclusive diagnosis leaves them grappling with unanswered questions.
A Call for National Screening
In light of these tragedies, there is a growing push for a national screening initiative for individuals over the age of 14. The UK National Screening Committee is currently reviewing this proposal, with a public consultation expected later this spring. Previous recommendations against widespread screening cited issues with accuracy for asymptomatic individuals. However, advocates like Dr Steven Cox, Chief Executive of CRY, argue that proactive screening is essential. “Research indicates that one in 300 people identified through screenings may have a hidden condition that could be fatal if left untreated,” he asserts.
The government has stated that its screening policies are based on expert scientific advice, yet families like those of Adam and Matthew are desperate for immediate action. They believe that awareness and early detection of cardiac conditions can save lives and prevent future heartbreak.
Enhancing Emergency Response
Following the inquest into Adam Ankers’ death, South Central Ambulance Service implemented changes to ensure that cases of patients collapsing during sports are treated as potential cardiac arrests. Emergency responders are now instructed to provide basic life support guidance, including the use of defibrillators, to improve survival rates.
Alastair Ankers has highlighted the importance of thorough training for those on the field, advocating for a comprehensive approach to health and safety in sports. “We need everyone involved,” he insists, stressing the urgency of equipping coaches and referees with the tools to recognise and respond to cardiac emergencies.
Why it Matters
The heart-wrenching losses of Adam Ankers and Matthew Dunning underscore a critical public health issue that affects countless families across the UK. With current statistics revealing that around two young people die every day from undiagnosed heart conditions, the need for increased awareness, proactive screening, and enhanced emergency training is paramount. By supporting initiatives aimed at identifying and managing cardiac risks in young people, we can honour the memories of those lost and work towards a future where no family endures such devastating grief.
