'He was so brave and determined' - Tributes to Blackpool dad with rare genetic condition who has died at 28
“Lewis never let his condition get in the way of his life - he just got on with it”
Tributes have been paid to a dedicated young dad who died at just 28 years old.
Lewis Edmundson, from South Shore, was born with the genetic condition neurofibromatosis type 2, or NF2, which causes tumours to arise on nerves. He was officially diagnosed as a young child, lost the sight in one eye as a youngster following an operation to try and correct his vision and in later years lost his sight completely along with his hearing.
Children with NF2 often have problems with their eyes, such as a squint or difficulty seeing caused by cloudy patches in the eyes, while most people with NF2 get tumours in their inner ear which can grow slowly and cause hearing loss.
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But his family say he fought his remarkable battle with the utmost bravery and that he was a loving son, partner and daddy who will be missed sadly by all who knew him.
Lizzie Gregory, who had been his partner for more than 10 years after the pair were introduced by friends, described Lewis as “funny, caring, cheeky, a great partner, and a wonderful dad”.
“Lewis never let his condition get in the way of his life - he just got on with it,” said Lizzie. “He was so determined and brave.”
Lewis was a former pupil of Thames Primary and South Shore Academy - when it was known as Palatine School - and was dad to Tommy, now nine-years-old.
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After being officially diagnosed with his condition at six, he coped well with it through his younger years but around eight years ago, a new tumour was spotted on one his regular MRI scans before others followed and Lewis in recent times, he had to undergo brain surgery.
Lewis was under the care of Trinity Hospice and died at home earlier this month, surrounded by his family.
Along with Tommy and Lizzie, Lewis leaves mum Joanne, dad John and brother Damian.
A celebration of his life will be held at Lytham Park Cemetery Chapel tomorrow, Thursday 24th September at 10:45am
The family have asked that anyone wishing to share a donation in memory of Lewis can do so to Trinity Hospice by visiting www.fyldefunerals.co.uk/lewisedmundson