Special event held to remember young Derry man who passed away suddenly

The family of a young Derry man who died suddenly last year have held a charity fundraiser on what would have been his 18th birthday.

Ryan Higgins, from the Creggan area, passed away in Altnagelvin Hospital in July of last year.

His death prompted a wave of tributes on social media from friends and young people left devastated by the loss.

On Friday night, Ryan’s family and friends gathered for a special charity night on what would have been his 18th birthday, where they celebrated his memory.

The night, which was held in The Crescent Bar, included a Night at the Races and a raffle, with all funds raised at the event going towards the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Altnagelvin Hospital.

Speaking to the Derry News, Ryan’s aunt, Leighann Higgins, said the night was a ‘great way’ for those who were close to Ryan to celebrate his life.

“Ryan and I had always talked about organising his 18th, so I got together with my cousins and we decided to do something for him in his memory,” she said.

“All his friends were there and it was great way for everyone to remember Ryan on his 18th, and we were delighted that everyone came along.”

“It was a really good night, and we managed to raise money for a great cause too.”

Leighann added: “We would just like everyone who helped with the night, everyone who came along and The Crescent Bar for hosting the event.”