I'm Scott and one of Simon's friends. We are asking for help to save the life of Simon Atkinson, aged 54, a loving dad, husband, friend and devoted grandad, and a man who has always put others before himself..

Simon recently lost his dad. That loss shattered him. The grief became overwhelming and led him into a dark place filled with depression and anxiety. In trying to numb the pain, alcohol slowly took hold, and what started as coping has turned into a devastating illness.

To watch your dad, the man who protected you, supported you, and loved you unconditionally, slowly disappear is heartbreaking. It's also heartbreaking from a friend's point of view to watch a lovely person slowly fading away.

Simon is also a proud grandad to a beautiful grandchild who deserves to grow up knowing his love, warmth, and laughter.

Right now, Simon’s illness has taken him to rock bottom. He is living rough, separated from his family home and the people who love him most. He is unwell, vulnerable, and fighting a disease that will kill him if he does not get help.

Alcoholism is not a weakness. It is an illness and Simon cannot overcome it alone but he is determined to overcome this if he could just get a fresh start.

Why we are fundraising

• £4,000 will cover a safe medical detox, giving Simon the chance to stabilise

• £14,000 will fund detox and 56 days of residential rehabilitation, giving him the best possible chance at long-term recovery

Rehabilitation would give Simon the support he needs to process his grief, address his mental health, and learn how to live without alcohol, not just survive, but truly live again.

Simon has so much to live for. A hardworking, caring man, a musician at heart, he has spent his life giving to others through his work, his kindness, and the music that has touched so many lives. Now, he needs help himself.

As a close friend, all we want is Simon back, healthy, safe, and alive. We are asking for help before it is too

If you can donate, even the smallest amount, you are helping to give Simon another chance at life. If you cannot donate, please share this page as it could reach someone who can and please pray for us.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for helping us give Simon hope when he needs it most