Young dad, 24, dies on same day he was meant to start ‘dream’ university course
The family of a father-of-two who died in the 'most heartbreaking and unimaginable circumstances' have spoken out about their loss.
Drew McCleave, 24, passed away suddenly last Wednesday (23 September) - the same day that he was supposed to start his 'dream' course at Glasgow University.
His devastated loved ones have told how the tragic timing 'makes what has happened even harder to comprehend', while describing him as a doting dad who 'absolutely adored' his daughters.
Drew, from North Ayrshire, Scotland, was set to begin his studies at the University of Glasgow last week when tragedy struck.
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The young dad's dream of studying aerospace systems was cruelly snatched away from him due to a brain aneurysm. According to his family, he likely 'carried it with him all of his life'.
The NHS explains that this describes the swelling of a blood vessel in your brain. Typically, they are small and do not cause symptoms.
But larger ones can cause headaches, pain surrounding the eye, changes in vision, dizziness, balance problems, lapses in short-term memory and difficulty concentrating or speaking.
The cause of brain aneurysms is not always clear, however smoking, high blood pressure, an injury to a blood vessel in your brain, genetic conditions and a family history of them can all play a part.
Drew passed away surrounded by his loved ones last Wednesday, leaving behind his 'beautiful' daughters Elena, 3, and three-month-old Harper.
One of his relatives has since launched a GoFundMe in honour of the late dad, which aims to provide 'a little bit of security and support' to his two young children.
A post paying tribute to Drew on the fundraiser said of the family's loss: "The timing makes what has happened even harder to comprehend.
"That very day, Drew was supposed to be starting at Glasgow University, studying Aerospace Systems. It was something he had worked towards and dreamed about for a long time.
"Drew always dreamed of one day putting something into space, and he was finally taking that first step towards making that dream a reality."
It went on to detail how 'becoming a dad changed him' after Drew overcame a 'incredibly difficult period' following the death of his sister Taylor.
"His girls gave him a completely different outlook on life, and he absolutely adored them," it continued. "He was a loving, doting dad who loved nothing more than his two wee girls.
"To lose him at just 24, with so much of his life still ahead of him, is something our family is struggling to come to terms with."
The money raised will go towards 'supporting Elena and Harper over the coming months and beyond'.
It adds: "The money raised will go towards helping with their day-to-day needs and giving them some financial support as they grow up without their dad.
"Nothing can replace Drew, and nothing can take away the pain of losing him. But we hope that, together, we can give his girls a little bit of security and support as they navigate life without their dad there to watch them grow."
Olivia Burke