Today, on the fifth anniversary of his tragic death, we are remembering Darel Bryan.
Darel was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) in December 2014, aged just 33. He bravely fought the disease for 15 months, enduring multiple surgeries, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, but sadly lost his battle on 26th February 2016.
After his death, Darel’s partner of 12 years, Natalie (pictured with Darel), and family set up the Fundraising Group The Darel Bryan Foundation to raise greater awareness as well as funds for vital research. The Group has received incredible support from Clarion Housing Group – where Darel worked as a Housing Officer – which has raised more than £300,000 over the years, placing tiles on the Wall of Hope at our Queen Mary University of London Centre of Excellence to represent the days of research they have sponsored.
Sharing Darel’s story on our website, Natalie said: “Words do not really describe the void left in all of our lives and my future. Darel was truly remarkable and did not complain once during the fifteen months. He never gave up his zest for life or his positivity and was utterly fearless. He was a beautiful person inside and out and had the most gorgeous smile, which lit up any room he went into.
“Darel fought so hard and although I cannot fight for Darel any longer, I want to honour him in every way we can and carry on the fight. Although it cannot be for Darel, if it is for future patients and their families then Darel’s battle would not have been in vain.”
Our thoughts are with Natalie, Darel’s parents Sara and Clifford, Darel’s sister Claudine, all his loved ones, and his friends and colleagues, today.