Rotherham school students raise £2,500 for Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice in memory of former classmate

The Year 11 group at Brinsworth Academy launched their fundraising drive to create a fitting legacy for Nathan Howson, who was known for his kindness, generous spirit and love of animals.

Nathan spent his final moments at Bluebell Wood last summer after surgeons at Sheffield Children’s Hospital were unable to rectify the damage caused by a brain haemorrhage which came out of the blue.

His science teacher Richard Travis said: “Nathan really was a lovely young man and was very well-liked by everyone who knew him.

“It came as a real shock to us all and, because of the restrictions at the school, we didn’t really have the chance to mourn together.”

The suggestion to do something in support of the hospice came from Nathan’s mum, Donna.

Richard said: “The year group as a whole, and particularly members of his form, were heavily impacted by his death and they have responded fantastically.

"The students discussed it and decided to do a sponsored walk which everyone could talk part in as part of their daily exercise. Nathan was very family-orientated and good natured, and a winter walk seemed very apt.”

He added: “In many ways Nathan’s passing has brought people together and there has been a real sense of community cohesion. We’re incredibly proud of everyone and how they’ve stepped up and contributed.”

Nathan has already changed the lives of six other people via organ donation, and now his life will help hundreds more who rely on Bluebell Wood’s services.

Anna Gott, regional fundraiser for the North Anston charity, said: “It’s very clear that Nathan was a remarkable young man whose loss is felt deeply by those who knew and loved him.

“We do everything in our power to be there for families facing the utter devastation of losing a child, so it was incredibly kind of Nathan’s family to suggest supporting Bluebell Wood through this inspirational challenge.

“It really has been a phenomenal effort by all involved and everyone should be incredibly proud.”

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