HeartBeat Killarney Kerry Cardiac Support Group hosted a special Men’s Health Night on Tuesday at the Parish Centre on Park Road.

The event focused on encouraging men aged 30 to 60 to prioritize their heart health, as statistics show one in five heart attacks in men occur before age 50.

The highlight of the evening was a personal account from former Senior Kerry footballer and RocheFit gym owner Darragh Roche.

The Glenflesk player detailed his experience of suffering a heart attack last year at just 29 years old.

Despite his healthy lifestyle as a fitness instructor and athlete with no family history of heart issues, Roche described experiencing a "squeezing sensation" in his chest that spread down his left arm while sitting at home.

Following an emergency ambulance transfer and medical intervention, he made a successful recovery and returned to the football pitch just nine weeks later.

Dr Rosemary Kelliher and Dr Danielle O’Leary from GP Care Killarney were also on hand to discuss the importance of prevention and heart health maintenance.

The night began with free blood pressure and pulse checks provided by HeartBeat nurses, followed by a Q&A session where attendees could address specific concerns with the medical professionals.