A final thumbs up for Stephen Sutton: Thousands gather to pay their final respects to the inspirational teenager

Thousands have gathered at Lichfield Cathedral to pay their final respects to Stephen Sutton, the inspirational teenager who raised millions for The Teenage Cancer Trust

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by Kayleigh Dray |
Published on

Around 2,000 well-wishers visited Lichfield Cathedral last night to pay tribute to Stephen Sutton, the inspirational teenager who lost his brave battle with bowel cancer two weeks ago.

Among those present were his mother, Jane Sutton, and brother, Chris, who gave a thumbs up - his trademark gesture in his dying days - in front of his coffin.

The entire country was touched by Stephen's positivity and bravery, with the teen inspiring us to live our lives to the fullest and donate to charity on his behalf.

Hundreds of people signed left messages for Stephen
Hundreds of people signed left messages for Stephen

And it seems only appropriate that, on the day we say goodbye to Stephen, his charity total reached an extraordinary £4,045,195.

Stephen originally started the fundraising drive on his justgiving.com webpage, but the donations have continued to pour in from people touched by his example since the 19-year-old succumbed to multiple tumours on May 14.

The young man, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer aged 15, spent his life raising awareness about the disease in young people, and had embarked on a bucket list.

His primary goal was to raise £1 million for the Teenage Cancer Trust - and he has achieved that and more, teaching us to follow our dreams and to do something truly inspirational - and kind - for others in the process.

Stephen passed away 2 weeks ago

Before his death, Stephen said: "I don't see the point in measuring life in terms of time anymore. I'd rather measure life in terms of making a difference."

Wise words which, we're sure, have resonated in the hearts of many.

At 11am today, there will be a Thumbs Up For Stephen event - which is being publicised with the social media hashtag #ThumbsupforStephen, with people urged by Stephen's family to carry out a random act of kindness.

His coffin will leave Lichfield for a private family funeral this afternoon at 3.45pm.

We doubt anyone will forget Stephen Sutton's extraordinary attitude to life; his spirit, bravery and tireless efforts to raise money and awareness for cancer research will continue to inspire us long after we say goodbye.

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