The parents of a man who passed away after collapsing during the Great North Run have expressed their gratitude for the “thousands of kind messages” they have received following their loss. Sam Wealleans, from Northumberland, died in hospital last Sunday after falling seriously ill during the half-marathon. Wealleans, who was running on behalf of the mental health charity Mind, was remembered by his parents as a “beloved son”. His cause of death is presently unknown.
Wealleans had been running in memory of his sister and a close friend – both of whom had passed away – to raise funds for the charity. The fundraiser for Mind has now surpassed £27,000. Meanwhile, the organisers of the half-marathon, the Great Run Company, have expressed their condolences to the family: “our thoughts and sympathies are with all those who loved and knew him”. Chief executive of Mind, Sarah Hughes, said the organisation would remain “forever grateful for Sam’s contribution”.
The Great North Run took place in rainy and chilly weather conditions. Approximately 60,000 people had registered to participate in this year’s event. Wealleans’ death was unrelated to the weather conditions, as his cause of death is yet to be determined.
The Wealleans family have expressed their sadness over the incident. Sam’s parents said, “we are devastated and heartbroken following the sudden and unexpected death… Our family has taken great comfort in knowing he was loved by all who knew him.
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