Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Brayden James McDonald, 14, is being remembered as a kind-hearted and much-loved young man, with the community raising more than $36,000 to support his family following the tragedy. Photo source: GoFundMe
More than $36,000 has been raised to support the family of Bloomsbury teenager Brayden James McDonald, who died following a motorcycle crash near his home last month.
The 14-year-old was riding a motorbike along Lindeman Drive at Bloomsbury, north of Mackay, about 2:30pm on 23rd May when he was involved in a collision with an oncoming van. Brayden suffered life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to Townsville Hospital, where he died the following day.
Queensland Police confirmed the driver of the van, a 42-year-old Bloomsbury woman, was not physically injured. Investigations into the crash are ongoing.
In the weeks since his passing, the local community has rallied around Brayden's family, with a GoFundMe appeal raising more than $36,500 from 262 donations to assist with funeral expenses and ongoing costs.
The fundraiser was established by family friend Tegan King, who described Brayden as a caring and unforgettable young man.
“Brayden was quirky, a good-natured, gentle boy with the kindest soul. He would give the shirt off his back if you needed it,” Ms King said.
“He had the kind of personality that made it impossible not to love him. In his 14 short years he lived life to its fullest and made the most of every moment.”
Brayden attended Calen District State College and was a member of the 122 Army Cadet Unit Mackay Region for more than a year.
In a statement published online, the cadet unit paid tribute to their young member.
“It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Brayden McDonald, a dedicated and spirited 14 year old Cadet who was not only part of our Unit for more than a year, but also a bright and cherished presence in our lives and friend to many,” the statement read.
The unit recently held a reflection and parade ground service to celebrate Brayden's life and support fellow cadets through the loss.
“We came together as a Cadet Unit to celebrate his life and find comfort in each other’s support, during a time of Reflection and a Parade Ground Service. In condolence, let us continue to keep Brayden and his Family in our thoughts and prayers.”
Those wishing to support the McDonald family can donate via the GoFundMe page at www.gofundme.com/f/brayden-james-mcdonald.
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