A community in the U.K. is reeling after a runner died while competing in a half marathon.
According to reports from the BBC, The Independent and Manchester Evening News, Sam Wealleans, 29, died soon after he collapsed during the AJ Bell Great North Run, which began in Newcastle, England on Sunday, Sept. 8.
Per the outlets, he had just two miles left in the race — which he was running to support the mental health advocacy charity Mind, according to his fundraising page.
Wealleans’ parents, Paul and Paula, said in a statement to the BBC that they were “devastated and heartbroken following the sudden and unexpected death of our beloved son, Sam.”
“We have been overwhelmed by the thousands of kind messages and charitable donations from people across the country and would like to sincerely thank everyone for their support and sympathy,” his parents continued. “Our family have taken great comfort in knowing he was loved by all who knew him.”
Sam Wealleans during the Great North Run.
Great Run company
The outlets reported that no cause of death has been made public, but Wealleans was transported to a hospital after collapsing during the 13.1 mile-long (or 21 km) race.
According to his fundraiser, Wealleans — who was originally from the northern England seaside town of Newbiggin-by-the-Sea — had dedicated his run to the memory of his sister, Carly, and family friend Matty Wall.
“1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year in England,” the 29-year-old wrote before his death. “If the money I raise helps just 1 person who’s going through a difficult time and prevents them from taking their own life I’ll be happy!”
By Monday, Sept. 16, donations to the fundraiser surpassed £30,000 (about $39,000), exceeding Wealleans’ original £350 goal. The outlets also reported that hundreds of community members turned out on Sunday, Sept. 15, to re-run the final two miles of the race — which ended in the town of South Shields — in honor of the runner.
The Great Run Company, which organizes the annual event, issued a statement to PA Media that stated: “All at the Great Run Company are deeply saddened by Sam’s passing.” The organization added, “We are continuing to support Sam’s close family during this incredibly difficult time, and our thoughts and sympathies are with all those who loved and knew him.”
The chief executive of Mind — which works to support those in need of mental health support receive free assistance in the U.K. and Channel Islands, according to its website — told the BBC that it thanked Wealleans for organizing his fundraiser. Mind would “forever grateful for Sam’s contribution,” executive Sarah Hughes told the outlet.
Hundreds of supporters left messages on Wealleans fundraiser page following his death to send their condolences and offer support to his family. “So sad — my thoughts are with family and friends,” one donor wrote, while another added, “My condolences to Sam’s family, such a worthy cause. Your work is done Sam, RIP. Best wishes to his family.”
