A family and sports club are raising funds so that a beloved father and coach can receive urgent medical treatment overseas.

An online page explained that Darren Whitehead needs a new defibrillator in his heart, as the one he received after suffering a cardiac arrest nine years ago might expire in less than 30 days.

His daughter, Trinity Basden, established a GoFundMe initiative, which has a $100,000 goal, a week ago.

She wrote on the page: “I appeal to you on behalf of my dad and family as we are in need of urgent financial assistance.

“No donation is too small. Any and all assistance is appreciated as this will help my dad with the much needed critical and life-saving surgery.”

Mr Whitehead, 59, who has been in King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for almost two weeks, was overwhelmed by the amount of support shown and funds already raised.

As of 5.30pm yesterday, 211 people, including an eight-year-old boy, donated more than $33,000 towards the fundraiser.

Mr Whitehead said: “Yesterday was the first day since I’ve been in the hospital that I did not shed tears of appreciation.

“I try to make a difference in people’s lives, regardless of colour, creed or nationality, and [it is great] to see it reciprocated.”

FC Bascome will also raise money for Mr Whitehead through a bake sale and potluck dinner.

Selina Bascome, from FC Bascome, said: “Mr Whitehead has been with us since we started in 2005.

“He coaches, and the children love him, so we are just trying to help out the family.

“The children are all very concerned and hope that Mr Whitehead gets better soon — there is a lot of love pouring out for him at the moment.”

Mr Whitehead added: “Love is all there is and conquers all, and I am feeling love from all the way on the other side of the world right now.”

The bake sale will take place at the Bermuda Athletic Association field today from 8.30am until all items are sold.

The dinner will be held at the BAA on June 28, from 5pm to 7.30pm, and tickets are $25.

Ms Bascome said: “We are looking to sell about 200 tickets, but if anybody else wants to drop by and grab a plate, they are welcome to.

“We will also be putting together a Euro night for the children on June 29, where for a donation, they can wear their favourite team jersey.

“We are going to push for as much we can do to help him out.”

• Visitthis link to donate to the fundraiser or call 536-0531, 504-8049 or 505-0297 to buy tickets for next week’s dinner