Following the death of their son from myocarditis in 2014, a Hull family has planned a 24-hour long virtual party in his honour.

Stephen Hughes, after graduating university at the age of 24, suffered a six month battle with myocarditis in 24 before passing away, reports the Hull Daily Mail.

His family set up a foundation in his memory, and have been fund-raising ever since in a bid to ‘Save Young Hearts’, and the ‘One Amazing Salsathon’ party will be held online on 30 and 31 January.

The event is to be both a fundraiser and a spirit raiser, aiming to play feel-good music during a difficult period for many people. It will feature an international roster of artists and DJs from all around the world, including the USA, Lithuania, Trinidad and Tobago and the UK.

It will combine Latin music, dance, comedy, chat, a quiz and a magic show, and hopes to attract participants from all over the globe. Different guest artists will perform every hour, playing music, or teaching dance routines, including Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, Cha Cha and Merengue.

Stephen’s parents, Gary and Hazel Hughes said: “It has been a difficult time for small charities and The Stephen Hughes Foundation has had all events postponed since March 2020 due to COVID-19.

“The charity has raised over £75,000 since 2016 towards its stated aim of ‘Saving Young Hearts’ and the fundraiser will provide a massive boost towards reaching its aspirational target of £100,000.”

We think it’s a fantastic idea, and bound to lift everyone’s spirits, and shows that even in the most tragic of circumstances, promoting awareness and fund-raising need not be a dour subject.

If you’re interested in fundraising or helping a myocarditis charity in the UK, talk to us today!