One of our incredible supporters who raised more than £20,000 for the hospice by hosting charity football matches, has died aged 44 – and now leaves an even bigger legacy for Birmingham Hospice.
Kieran Lavin died just before Christmas and his wife Donna, son Jack, mother Maureen and brother Martin recently donated £2,343 from his funeral collection.
Kieran had supported the hospice for over 10 years through his highly successful charity football matches, and the fundraising total stands at well over £20,000.
Donna explained: “One of Kieran’s real passions was giving back to others.
“We felt that with the funeral donations, the only place it could come to was Birmingham Hospice.
“His friend Wayne died at the Selly Park site when he was just 37 after being diagnosed with skin cancer. To honour Wayne’s memory, Kieran started hosting charity football matches. The first one raised £9,000!”
The following year, Kieran’s friend Michael also very sadly died. Kieran continued the games in both Wayne and Michael’s memories, using his grief as inspiration to raise money in their honour.
Martin, Kieran’s brother, said: “My favourite part about the games was just looking to the crowds and seeing how many people were there to support, all who had connections with Kieran.
“There was a real sense of comradery, and everyone was so keen to get involved and support. It really is something special.”
The football matches attracted a lot of attention, including coverage from BBC WM, the kit being sponsored by the Birmingham Mail, and the match receiving corporate support too. Kieran also cut the ribbon and opened our charity shop in Cotteridge.
“Once you met Kieran, he really took the time to know you,” Donna added.
“He had a genuine interest in helping other people. Everywhere we went, he would know someone! The message Kieran always gave was that there is hope, and everything doesn’t have to be doom and gloom.
“Kieran was a huge advocate for giving back. Losing his friends changed his outlook, but in a way to support others. We are just so proud of him.”
The money raised from Kieran’s funeral can help fund 44 bereavement support session to help families through the journey of grief. We want to extend our deepest condolences to Kieran’s family and friends, and thank them for all the support they have given our hospice.
