Tweedbank dad recalls pain of losing son

Graham Ford • Published 23 Jan 2012 09:30 0 Comments

"THE feeling at the time is like having a rough pebble in my stomach, five years later it still hurts. But the pebble is just a little bit smoother."

That was how Alan Doyle described the pain of losing his son.

Earlier this month former Tweedbank Lad and promising footballer, Christopher Doyle, would have celebrated his 21st birthday, but sadly one week after turning 16 the Galashiels Academy pupil died suddenly leaving a massive whole in the hearts of his family and his huge circle of friends.

During the dark days that followed his son's death, Alan learned so much about the people of Tweedbank who comforted his family during their unimaginably difficult period.

Speaking to the Border Telegraph, Alan said: "Because Chris had been Tweedbank Lad he was really well known in the community. People came from many different parts of Tweedbank to offer their support.

"We never really how much how much he was loved until something as dreadful as this happened."

Alan and his family also found strength within themselves to cope with the tragedy, and now he is looking to encourage other parents to make sure they live for today, and be as interactive with their children as possible.

"I would also tell them to take as many photo's as you can of your children. These photo's are what I treasure most nowadays and it is something I am so glad I made a point of doing," he added.

Alan is also actively helping Scottish HART with their quest to raise money to ensure that children are routinely tested for heart problems. At present we are one of the few countries in Europe not carrying out these tests.

As a result of the tragic events Alan has also grown closer to his other two children, Alan, 24 and Sarah, 15.

He added: "I never realised truly how close our bond was up until that point. I also believe it encouraged them to do all they can in life and make the most of every day. When I see Christopher's friends who have all progressed to university, to learn to drive, to find jobs, they have made a point of including our family in their progress.

"I would say that I am closer to them now as I was then. I see a bit of Chris in them, I am proud to know the friends Chris made and realise how nice these people are. I was also nicely surprised to find out how many friends he had. I would also say that by speaking about this and encouraging parents to be more observant of their children, I hope I can avoid another such tragedy."

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This article appeared in Border Telegraph 23 Jan 12

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