A funeral service for a young Ramsgate man who sadly lot his battle against cancer will be held on September 21.
Reece Flannigan was diagnosed with rare Ewing Sarcoma cancer, which affects bones or the tissue around bones, last year.
The 21-year-old had undergone radiotherapy and an operation to remove the cancer from his spine and it was thought he was clear of the disease.
But a fortnight after returning home Reece again had terrible pain in his hip and was eventually forced to go to hospital to have it checked. A body scan and follow-up appointment confirmed metastases – secondary malignant growths – which doctors said was terminal.
Sadly Reece passed away on August 18.
Mum Sharon said: “He was so so loved and it shows so much. I’m truly gutted, I’m lost and numb. The only thing I find comfort in is knowing he’s not suffering and he is at peace but the selfishness in me is hurting.
“Reece was just so tired he had to fly high. My beautiful boy, it’s never ever goodbye, it’s until I see you again.”
Sharon has given thanks to all those who cared for Reece, from ambulance crews and hospital and hospice staff to family, Reece’s girlfriend and friends.
A fundraiser to help with funeral costs has been set up by Reece’s sister Jessica. On the fundraising page she says: “Reece unfortunately lost his battle with Ewing Sarcoma, which has left his family, girlfriend and friends absolutely devastated.
“Everyone that knows Reece knows how amazing he was. He was so positive throughout and so caring. He never wanted anyone worrying because he would always say he would be fine.
“He had so much love to give and was so loved in return.”
The funeral will be held at Margate crematorium on September 21 at 12.15pm.
The funeral procession will be leaving from 60 Princess Margaret Avenue at 11.45am. Those attending can either follow Reece on his journey to the crematorium or meet him there.
Dress code is Man United shirts or the colour red for the football teams he loved or casual.
Sharon said: “I hope all his friends make it and give him the send-off my warrior deserves.”
