Darren James Coleman was diagnosed with a Grade 4 glioblastoma, a very aggressive brain tumour, in March 2006. He underwent chemotherapy and radio therapy but sadly passed the following August.

Darren, our gentle giant, used to play for Coventry Boys football team and was one of the 'Sky Blues' (Coventry City FC) biggest fans. He had tickets to see England 's opening game of the World Cup but was too ill to go. His very close friends phoned him every hour throughout the game. While there, they happened to meet Ray Winston, Darren's favourite actor, and he signed an England flag for Darren. It was treasured by him and was placed in his coffin.

Throughout his illness, Darren was brave and selfless, never making a fuss despite the pain. The Oncology team at University Hospital , Coventry and Warwickshire, were confident of his recovery. Even up to a few days before he died, he was told that his quality of life was excellent.

On Monday 28 August 2006, just gone 4am, Darren slipped into a coma and passed away with a slight smile on his face and one tear on his cheek.

We are so proud to have spent time with Darren. He is so greatly missed by his Mum and Dad (Philomena and Chris) and his sisters and brothers, Victoria, Natalie, Kerry, Paul and Liam. He has been an inspiration to us all.

Thank you, sweet, selfless and courageous Darren.

You can shed tears that he has gone
Or your can smile because he has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back.
Or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left.
Your heart can be empty because your can't see him,
Or you can be full of the love you shared.
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday.
You can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.
You can remember him and only that he has gone
Or you can cherish his memory and let it live on.
Be empty and turn your back
Or you can do what he'd want,
Smile, open your eyes, love and go on.

 

Good night and God bless, Darren.
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