Project Description

It is with deep regret and sadness that we mourn the death of Neil O’Brien. Born 13 July 1978 and tragically died on 24 April 2020 from suspected COVID-19.

He had been a member of Kith & Kids and subsequently klasp for many years.  He was always full of fun and jollity.  In his early days his disability was referred to as “Happy Puppets syndrome” now known as Angleman syndrome, he spent all of his life in a wheelchair.  This did not detract from his sense of fun as he would grab food from his tray and throw it around the room; he was a very good shot.  He had many a holiday in Churchtown farm; then a retreat run by Scope, where he would be supported in rock climbing and abseiling and even water skiing, with a wheelchair clamped onto a platform which was towed by a boat – the smiles on his face were a wonder.

Tribute from His sister Lisa

’ve been trying to think of the right words to say to try and capture just how much I miss you, but nothing seems quite right, so here it goes anyway.

Thank you for being the best big brother anyone could have ever hoped for. Thank you for teaching me the worth of chocolate buttons. Thank you for teaching me how to effectively duck flying missiles (how the hell did you manage to throw them that far AND that accurately to hit me in the head EVERY time?!)

Thank you for the fisticuffs- I fully appreciate that it was a 50/50 split on which one of us started it. We definitely kept mum and dad on their toes.

Thank you for introducing me to the wonders of The Muppets. Kermit has been helping me through some tricky days recently.

Thank you for teaching me to talk and listen without words. Thank you for inspiring me to become a speech and language therapist, you will continue to inspire me everyday.

You have touched the lives of everyone you have ever met. That mischievous smile. That love of bubbles. That pretending you don’t know any better face so you can get away with being cheeky. The world is an emptier place without you in it and I feel suddenly lost not having my big brother around.

I love you so so much.