A family copes with loss by creating a charity called Sudden Sam. The organization supports others in Liverpool.
The family experienced a very difficult time. Now, they offer hope to others in Liverpool dealing with loss. Sam broke his leg in December 2023 and had surgery on Valentine’s Day. He died on February 19th at home, at the age of 35, leaving behind three children.
Sam’s death put his family in unknown territory, facing inquests and medical reviews. Support was lacking during this long, difficult process. Inspired by Sam and their experiences, the family created Sudden Sam.
Sudden Sam supports families in the Liverpool area dealing with sudden deaths. The charity started providing help last January, offering free counseling sessions, including hypnotherapy and talking therapy. They also provide money for funeral costs and advise on benefits families can get. The charity helps with the inquest process too. An inquest determines facts about unexpected deaths.
Sam’s brother, Tom Hanlon, spoke about his brother’s death and its drastic impact on everyone involved. He noted a significant lack of support, emphasizing that sudden death is very different from other bereavement cases.
Grief is hard enough, and the coronial process adds more pressure. Families must deal with the NHS and local authorities, facing a pile-up of meetings and reports when they are already struggling.
They wanted to honor Sam by supporting others, as Sam valued community and mental health, concepts that are deeply connected.
The charity’s positive impact is clear, showing how vital they are to the community. They currently have three counselors, each conducting one-on-one therapy. Initially, they started with one, but more counselors quickly became necessary. Currently, they help 36 people with therapy, and many others have finished their sessions. The family finds the testimonials heartwarming.
Tom hopes to find a HQ for Sudden Sam in Sam’s home, Crosby. Funding is important, and they have applied to the National Lottery and are waiting to hear back.
The building will serve as a community hub where those grieving can simply drop in. They will host many support groups there and want to offer art and play therapy for children. Sam had three kids, and the charity wants to help other kids, too.
Sam’s inquest concludes on February 26th. The charity gives them focus, helping to positively channel grief and providing a reason to persevere.
Sam passed away two years ago, and his inquest closes soon. The family felt worried about how they would cope. Sudden Sam serves as their driving force, and every action they take in Sudden Sam is for Sam, supporting his legacy.
His children will understand the good that came from it. In time, they will see what came from their dad’s memory.