News / charity
Fundraiser set up in memory of runner who died during Bristol Half Marathon
The family of a runner who died while taking part in the Bristol Half Marathon are raising funds in his memory.
Despite Mike Harper having no known health issues, he had a sudden cardiac arrest during the race on May 19.
Mike’s family are raising money for CRY, a charity which prevents young sudden cardiac deaths through awareness, screening and research, as well as supporting affected families.
On the fundraising page, Mike, who had previously lived in Bristol while working as a quantity surveyor, is described as a “beloved son, incredible brother, loving partner and lifelong friend” who is “loved by so many and left his mark all across the country”.
His partner, Ailsa Gray, wrote: “Our life together was beautiful. You completed me, Mike. Spending every day waking up to you made me the happiest and luckiest girl in the world.
“I’m heartbroken for the future we’ve lost, the vows we never got to make and the children we would have so lovingly raised.
“I love you soo much and how loved I was by you. We found the truest love and it was magical.
“May you guide me through this darkness. You were and always will be, my light in this life.”
Mike was born in Lincoln and relocated to Bristol after graduating from Sheffield Hallam University in 2019, working for Laing O’Rourke at Hinckley Point, and moving to London in 2023 to continue working for Laing O’Rourke.
He enjoyed travelling, running, playing football, partying with his friends and exploring London with Ailsa.
His family said: “We are devastated to say we lost Mike to a sudden cardiac arrest whilst running in the Bristol Half Marathon, a city he once called home.
“He had no known health issues or family history of young sudden cardiac death. He was otherwise healthy and always prioritised fitness.
“This loss has been so unimaginably difficult to come to terms with and CRY offer such important support.
“We’d love if you have the means to donate to CRY to help us raise money to aid cardiac screening and raise awareness of the potential risk of cardiac arrest in youth.
“The charity also provide screening for immediate family members due to the connection between sudden cardiac death and genetics.
“And for Mike, we don’t want any one else to lose anybody in this cruel and shocking way. Thank you for your generosity and ongoing support.”
To donate to Mike’s fundraiser, visit www.c-r-y.org.uk/mike-harper
Main photo: CRY
Read next: Family launch defibrillator crowdfunder after son’s death
Our newsletters emailed directly to you
