Family to Run in Memory of Belfast Man Who Died of Unexpected Heart Attack

Loved ones of Seamus Perry, a 51-year-old man from North Belfast, are preparing to participate in the Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke (NICHS) Red Dress Fun Run to honor his memory and raise awareness of heart conditions. Seamus passed away unexpectedly in January after suffering a heart attack.

According to his fiancée, Elaine Crangle, Seamus went to bed feeling well and showed no prior signs of illness. “He woke up at 3.45am and said, ‘I believe I’m having a heart attack’, and was holding his chest,” Elaine recounted. Despite the rapid response of paramedics and a subsequent surgery involving three stents at the Royal Victoria Hospital, Seamus tragically succumbed to a fatal cardiac arrest within three hours.

The family was shocked by the suddenness of his death. “When everything started happening and then at the hospital, we thought, ‘he’s going to be ok… He’s had a heart attack, but he’s getting medical care, he will be unwell for a while, but it will be ok.’ We didn’t expect this outcome at all. He was only 51,” Elaine said.

Friends and family describe Seamus, affectionately known as Seamy, as a vibrant and well-loved individual. Michele Slane, a long-time friend, remembered him as a “joker” who always brought fun and laughter. He was known for his love of football, having played for Newington Football Club throughout his life and being recognized as one of the best players in the club’s 40-year history. He briefly played professionally for Gillingham FC in Kent but returned home due to homesickness.

Seamus also had a strong perform ethic, working in the fruit and vegetable trade for many years, starting his day at 4 am to provide for his family. His passing has left a significant void in the lives of those who knew him.

Elaine emphasized the importance of raising awareness about heart health, noting that Seamus appeared healthy and showed no obvious symptoms. “We desire to raise awareness that heart conditions can affect anyone, at any age. It can be unexpected and is not something that solely affects older people.” She also mentioned that Seamus had occasionally complained of chest soreness, which he attributed to indigestion and lack of sleep.

Elaine Crangle, Patricia Perry, and Michele Slane, along with twelve family and friends, are participating in the NICHS Red Dress Fun Run, which will take place at Stormont Estate, Belfast, on Sunday, March 22nd. NICHS hopes for a large turnout at this year’s event.