A fundraiser in memory of a schoolboy who died after collapsing while playing football has raised a whopping £21,000 in less than a day. Andrew MacKinnon, 15, tragically lost his life on Tuesday afternoon after a medical incident at Forrester High School in Broomhouse, Edinburgh.
Emergency services rushed to the school when Andrew became unwell shortly after 3pm but were unable to save the teenager. Andrew, a huge Hearts fan, was described as a “very talented and popular kid”, he was a promising young talent playing for Salvesen Blues 07s, reports Edinburgh Live.
Heartbroken friends, relatives and members of the community have rallied together to raise funds for the much-loved schoolboy's family, following his shock passing. The GoFundMe page, which said that Andrew died "doing what he loved" was started by family friend Megan Malone and raised more than £21,000 in under 24 hours.
A message dedicated to Andrew and attached to the fundraiser online added: "Hi everyone, myself and Amie have decided to start this go fund on behalf of Janine and family. On Tuesday, March 14, they sadly lost their son Andrew. He was doing what he loved, playing football and suddenly passed away.
"He was a lovely, caring boy and adored his family. A few years ago Andrew went through massive surgery - he’s was the strongest lad and powered through life with the biggest smile on his face.
"On behalf of the family we have set this go fund me up to take as much pressure of the family as we can at this hard time. We pass our love onto you all and Andrew will forever be the brightest star in the sky."
Tributes for the teen flooded in. One person wrote: "We are absolutely heartbroken for Andrews family. There are simply no words… our son Gary was friends with Andrew & said he was an amazing young man, he will miss him"
Another said: "Andrew was a top lad and teammate - lots of great memories. We are all gutted and saddened with this tragic news. RIP Andrew" And a third added: "rip andrew u be sadly missed only god takes the best xxx fly high xx"
Following the heartbreaking news, a special memorial service at St David's Broomhouse Parish Church was held on Tuesday evening where friends and family were invited to light a candle and reflect in silence.
Andrew leaves behind sister Aimee, 20, sister Rachel, 17, mum Janine Dow, 48, and dad Andrew MacKinnon, 40, as well as stepdad Gary Weir, 55.
Andrew's dad said: "He really was such a lovely wee boy and really loved his football. He died doing the thing he loved most and we are all heartbroken. We will be at Forrester at 4pm to put his strip up behind the goals and remember Andrew. Anybody is welcome to come."
Those wishing to make a donation to the fundraiser can do so here.
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