Ross Dunk

Ross was a cherished son to Mo and Dennis and a much loved little brother to myself and big brother to Ellie. A good friend to many. Ross died aged 16, 4 weeks before his 17th birthday of a Methodone overdose.

That Saturday night was just like any other Saturday night, but one I'll never ever forget.....Saturday 29 September 2002, the night my brother peacefully passed away in his sleep.

I remember the last time I spoke to him. I’d been shopping that afternoon and remember ringing Ross in the afternoon to let him know I'd got some goodies. Who would have thought that would have been the last time I'd hear his voice?

Ross was out with friends that night. I don't know to this day all the details of what happened but Ross had taken Methadone. My brother wasn’t a heroin user. The use of methadone by a non-user of heroin ‘can’ be lethal. In Ross’ case it ‘was’ lethal and our little man was taken away from us. My only comfort is knowing that he just went to sleep that night and wasn’t in any pain.

Although I was big sister, as Ross got older he always seemed to be the one looking out for me. We were close and I miss him so much. I also know that Ross is still in many people’s hearts and me, mum and dad find great comfort in that.

It still seems so unfair he was taken from us. He had his whole life ahead of him. Learning to drive? Starting work with my dad? Why Ross? Why was my little brother taken away. You never think it will happen to you.

He was a fun loving character, who was always abit of a joker, he had a good caring heart.

It will be 6 years this year. You still can’t believe it all happened? Ross is missed and loved dearly. He’ll never be forgotten. Since losing Ross, he now has another half brother and nephew. Dad's son knows all about his half brother and I will certainly make sure my son knows all about his Uncle Ross and what a great person he was.

Sleep peacefully ‘Our Special Man’ xx