Tragic Passing of Young Gerald Green Days After Cancer Diagnosis Stuns Community
In a tragic turn of events, 21-year-old Gerald Green passed away merely four days after receiving a cancer diagnosis, a condition he initially mistook for the need for a new bed due to persistent back pain. Gerald’s condition rapidly deteriorated as he began to experience severe symptoms, including vomiting and coughing up blood, which he kept hidden from his family.
Gerald’s mother, Paula, driven by concern, took him to the hospital after discovering the severity of his symptoms. The medical team at the hospital eventually delivered the devastating news to the family that Gerald’s condition was terminal. In a matter of hours after being admitted to an end-of-life care hospice, Gerald succumbed to the disease.
The family, shattered by the loss, is now advocating for greater awareness about the importance of not dismissing significant changes in one’s health. Cousin Ailley Colquhoun shared with the Daily Record the urgency with which Gerald was taken to the hospital upon the revelation of his hidden symptoms. Ailley emphasized the necessity of prompt medical attention for symptoms akin to Gerald’s to avoid tragic outcomes.
The rapid progression of Gerald’s cancer, which had spread to his bones and blood, left no viable treatment options, leading to his untimely death surrounded by loved ones. His final moments were marked by expressions of love and farewell to his family. Gerald, hailing from Paisley, Scotland, was initially admitted to the Royal Alexandra Hospital on January 19 due to severe anemia and underwent surgery to drain his kidney.
The situation grew dire when he stopped breathing on the operating table, but he was resuscitated and placed in an induced coma. He awoke to the grim diagnosis of aggressive cancer on January 26. Gerald, who dedicated his time to caring for his father Gerry, was moved to St Vincent’s Hospice for end-of-life care on January 30, where he passed away shortly after his arrival.
The suddenness of Gerald’s demise has left his family and community in shock, struggling to come to terms with the reality of his absence. Ailley reminisced about Gerald’s vibrant personality, his love for his dogs and St Mirren FC, and his reputation as a kind-hearted and amiable individual. Gerald’s role as a carer for his father and his former passion for football were highlighted as significant aspects of his life cut short by his untimely death.
In the wake of this tragedy, a fundraising initiative has been launched to honor Gerald’s memory and support his grieving family. The campaign aims to celebrate Gerald’s life, his contributions as a caring son, and the joy he brought to those around him with his humorous and laid-back approach to life. The community’s tributes to Gerald as a talented footballer and a cherished family member underscore the profound impact of his loss on those who knew him.