by Luke Voogt
The family of a Geelong nurse who died unexpectedly last week have raised more than $17,000 to help others in his name.
Leon Crosby said his family were “overwhelmed” with the public support for their quest to donate medical equipment in memory of younger brother Reece.
“It’s given us a shining light to see how many people cared for him.”
The family’s campaign would continue Reece’s legacy of helping people, both as an intensive care unit (ICU) nurse and in everyday life, Leon explained.
“He was caring and had time for everybody,” he said.
“He would help you out at the drop of a hat and that carried over to his work in (University Hopsital Geelong’s) ICU.
“He was our doctor on call, so to speak. If we had problem he was always there to help.”
Reece was just 36 when he died of suspected heart attack last week, Leon said.
“It’s just come out of nowhere. He was the fittest guy I know. He was a big guy, very into his gym and Muy Thai.
While the sudden loss of the Reece had “gutted” the family, donating equipment to look after patients was what he would have wanted, Leon said.
“It gives our family a little direction because we’re grieving pretty hard over it. The money’s going to be directed to where he worked.”
The family will also collect donations at Reece’s funeral next week in their quest to purchase equipment for University Hospital Geelong’s intensive care unit.
To donate visit www.gofundme.com/f/1tju24szio or search for Reece Crosby at gofundme.com.
