In loving memory of Richard Jefferson

I am extremely sad to be writing this and fundraising for such a lovely young man who was taken far too young.

I am fundraising to help give Rich the send-off he truly deserves and celebrate his life.

This lovely family has had the worst year possible. From Rich’s cancer diagnosis in November, supporting each other through Richards intense radiotherapy and chemotherapy, then when they all thought the worst was over and Rich was in recovery - the radiotherapy had caused irreversible damage, which caused him to have a cardiac arrest at home from necrotic infection and swelling, the complications then led to Richard to have a surgical tracheostomy placed and sadly suffered some brain injury.

Richard fought for his life in intensive care, after one week on ICU, he was moved to Castle Hill and started Rehabilitation a few weeks later. Richard could not walk or verbally communicate with his family or friends - but managed to keep smiling most days and let them know how he was feeling with his facial expressions. Sadly, Rich endured illness after illness, which set his rehabilitation back each time - but Rich never gave up. He was at Castle Hill hospital for 4 months fighting to get better and get back home to be with his family and friends. It was a very tough time for everybody, especially Tara and his young daughter Megan.

The family was then told the devastating news that Rich would never recover, and it would be best for him to be moved to Dove House Hospice for end-of-life care. He had outstanding care from Dove house, and it comforted his family and friends that he was much happier there and had lots of lovely days spent with them.

Sadly, seven weeks later Rich lost his battle but was an inspiration to them all.

He had massive support from his family and friends especially Tara, her support and devotion to Rich was admirable.

They have suffered financially on top of everything else they have had to deal with, so if anyone can kindly make a small donation to his life celebration it would be greatly appreciated and will hopefully take some of the stress away at this awful time.

Funeral arrangements will be posted next week.