THE family of a 29-year-old man who died suddenly in Vietnam will soon be able to bring him home after a successful fundraising campaign.
Reece Watt, 29, who is from Benfleet and studied at King John School, had been travelling for the last two years starting in Cambodia before moving to Vietnam late last year where he had recently accepted a job offer to teach English to local children.
It is understood that he passed away peacefully in his sleep from natural causes. It came to light that his travel insurance had expired and the cost of getting him home was around £10,000.
Friends set up a JustGiving page to raise the funds needed to get Reece home. Friends and family as well as supporters in the community all pulled together to raise a huge £9,130 so far.
It was also discovered that Reece saved the life of an unconscious man choking to death a few days before he lost his own life.
Tributes have been paid to the former medical worker, who was described by many as a special person who often helped others and asked for nothing in return.
Frank Earl posted on Facebook: “In the few months he was here [Saigon, Vietnam] from Cambodia, he touched so many people. It is amazing how many people came to love and respect him. We were not even family, but the trauma of his premature end affected us deeply. One cannot imagine how his family felt. God bless you Reece. You were a very special person.”
Kaye Steels also posted: “I don’t think he knew the impression he left on people. Heart of gold. I will miss him greatly.”
Neale Hodgskin added: “So sad to hear about Reece, my deepest sympathy on this sad occasion.”
A musical tribute will take place on Saturday, February 3 at the Borough Hotel, Southend, and any donations will go Reece’s family. To make a donation visit, https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/reecewatt
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