Battled kidney disorder
Family devastated by loss
The funeral of a Bridge of Allan man who received a new lease of life as a child when his mother donated a kidney to him takes place today (Wednesday).
Richard Glen was just 12 when mum Susan donated her kidney to save his life, ending his total dependency on kidney dialysis.
He died suddenly at his home in the town on July 31, aged 32, 18 months after new complications with his kidney had set in.
However, he had treasured the special gift his mother gave him and family say he had appreciated each day and lived life to the full.
Dad Hammy Glen said: “Richard lived a wonderful life and did everything he wanted to do.
“He won eight medals in badminton - gold, silver and bronze - in the British Transplant Games and two bronze in the World Transplant Games in France 2004. His Aunt Hazel was a big light in his life and taught him badminton.
“He loved music - and tried to play the guitar. He also loved rugby and was a staunch Rangers supporter.
“Everything he did he did it with passion. He was a bubbly character.
“He had time for everyone and always had a smile. He never moaned. He just got on with things.”
Unsurprisingly, Richard continued to share a special bond with Susan, who is being supported by family and friends.
“They had a ‘birthday’ celebration every year on the date of his transplant,” said Hammy. “She would have a cake and he would bring her something. This year it was a teddy and chocolates.”
Richard was with his fiancee LeeAnn, who he was due to marry in September next year, when he collapsed at his home.
“I was getting ready to pick him up when LeeAnn phoned,” said Hammy. “When I got there neighbours had been giving him CPR and they and the ambulance team did everything they could. They were all amazing but I think it had been very sudden.
“His kidney had started to go about 18 months ago but he had been back on dialysis and seemed to be doing fairly well. His mum’s kidney had lasted for 19 years and had let him experience such a lot in life that he may not have had the chance to.”
After his transplant Richard eventually went on to become a student at college in Falkirk and worked for a time at Stirling University. He ultimately worked for the Scottish Youth Hostel Association in Stirling’s Top of the Town.
“He got on fantastically well with the staff there,” said Hammy. “He loved to tell people staying there where they should visit in the area - and just loved his job.”
Hammy added that the family - which also includes Richard’s sister Samantha and his young nephews Glen and Alex are all devastated at their loss but greatly appreciate the support they have received.
“The whole community have been fantastic,” said Hammy. “The support from neighbours has been overwhelming and Bridge of Allan Bowling Club even offered to change their Ladies Day when we asked to book it for after Richard’s funeral. We are extremely grateful to everyone.”
Richard’s funeral will take place today (Wednesday) at Bridge of Allan Parish Church at 12.15pm followed by Falkirk Crematorium at 1.45pm. The family have asked that bright colours be worn and a collection will be taken for charity Help For Heroes, of which Richard was a strong supporter.