Hi, I'm Giles, and my best friend Sean died the other day. I'm hoping to raise some money for Seth, his 13-year old son, and Sarah (Seth's mum) so that they can give Sean a proper send off, and have a gathering of people who knew and loved Sean to share their memories, which should help provide some closure for Seth and Sarah, Sean's step-children Georgia & Ben, and others of us who all loved Sean.

Sean went to the doctor with a lump near his collar bone in late April, he was admitted to hospital for tests through early May, and again in mid-June; unfortunately, they found a highly metastasized cancer through his lungs, abdominal organs and bones. Sean spent most of July in hospital. Friends and family visited loads, and a rota of lovely people drove him from Warwick Hospital to Coventry Hospital for daily radiotherapy treatments. He rallied a little, and was released into his family's care, but only managed a few days before his condition worsened and he was re-admitted to hospital on Thursday 25th July. He moved to Coventry Myton Hospice on Friday 2nd August, and continued to decline. He passed away on Tuesday 6th August in Seth's arms.

It's likely that most people reading this knew Sean, so I shouldn't have to say much about what a one of a kind character he was, how open and honest he was. I probably don't need to mention that he lived life to the fullest, and touched many many lives in such positive ways, as you already know that. I know I don't need to say how much he loved Seth, and how proud he was of him, because Sean would tell that to anyone and everyone.

Sean hadn't planned for this, and he wasn't really about material things. He worked just enough to keep his belly full and his van on the road - he didn't have contingency funds or an emergency pot - so there is no money put aside for his funeral, hence the fundraiser.

I'm hoping to raise enough money to cover the funeral directors' costs, with a 40-minute family-run service at Banbury Crematorium, followed by a gathering and food in Southam, to give everyone a chance to celebrate the life of Sean. There isn't a date for this yet, as nothing can be confirmed until it's known it can be paid for.

If the target is exceeded, or if the costs come in lower, any remaining funds will be split between donations to Warwick Hospital and Myton Hospice (as the staff at both were amazing at every stage), and Seth's future.

Updated aims 13/08/2024

£3500 for funeral costs

£1000 to go into trust until Seth is 18

£500 donation to Mary Ward, Warwick Hospital

£500 donation to Myton Hospice Coventry.

Thanks so much for taking the time to read this. I know that times are hard, but any donation that you are able to make - no matter the amount - would be really appreciated. If you could share the campaign too I would be really grateful.

Thanks, Love & Stuff

Giles