Samuel died by suicide on 2 September 2020, aged 17. He left behind heartbreak and utter desolation. This year, as a family, we endured a harrowing inquest, which has compounded our loss. But we are determined to change the narrative, to bring us some hope and try to heal a little.

In the run up to Samuel’s 21st birthday – on 2nd October 2023 – we are undertaking 21 challenges, individually and as a family. These range from activities he loved and others he never got a chance to undertake. From sky diving and graffitiing to scoffing his favourite sweet treats, Lego challenges, and getting tattoos!

Samuel had a huge sense of adventure; he was a thrill seeker with a wild character. He was creative, funny, and outspoken, and had an insanely sweet tooth.

We would love for others to join us on our challenge. Pledge a tenner and do something that makes you smile or gives you hope, in memory of our boy.

All funds raised will support a fantastic charity, Quinn’s Retreat, who provide holiday breaks for those bereaved to suicide. They are also the partner for the North East Speak Their Name suicide memorial quilt project, which Suzanne is co-leading on, in Samuel’s name.

#samuel21for21