The family of a 25-year-old man who collapsed and died suddenly while working at a Lord Street shop are marking the first anniversary of his death.
Keen sportsman Chris Haw from Lansdowne Road collapsed on Jun 3, 2006, while working at Man to Man menswear store.
More than 700 people paid their respects to the popular student at his funeral at Holy Trinity Church.
His dad Steve has this week told the Southport Visitor how, although it has been 12 months since his son’s death, the family are still very much grieving.
He said: “Time really isn’t a healer. We miss him so much and it still very hard to deal with.”
Since last June, both Chris’ family and friend have helped to fundraise for registered charity CRY (Cardiac Risk in the Young).
Steve said: “CRY tries to raise awareness about SADS (Sudden Adult Death Syndrome) in local communities and provide support and exploratory assistance to families.
“They have supported and medically tested our family, with the help of renowned consultant cardiologist, Dr Sanjay Sharma and his excellent staff at The Lewisham Hospital in London.”
Fundraising events have included “The Jedi Festival”, a musical tribute organised by Ross Perkins and Ritchie Hardie from the Underground bar, which featured bands such as Keith, Cardello, Dave Crompton, The Vandahls, Suitcase and Exile Parade. The night successfully raised £1,000.
Another fundraiser in the 25-year-old’s memory was the epic Liverpool-Leeds canal bike ride by his friends Tom Fletcher, Nicky Wilde, Steve Aspin, George Cutts and also Steve.
He said: “Chris’ friends have given me a lot of support and have always been there. It’s great that we can raise money for such a good cause while remembering our Chris.
“Everyone is still in pieces over his death. He will never be forgotten.”
