GoFundMe to help Kyan Pennell family raises thousands

A community devastated by the freak farm death of Mary Valley youngster Kyan Pennell has generously responded to the launch of a GoFundMe campaign to help his family, with one person donating $3250 and the campaign itself raising almost $20,000.

The community has been devastated by the freak death of 12-year-old Tuchekoi youngster Kyan Pennel, who died on Monday, January 31, at his parent’s property south of Gympie.

The massive outpouring of grief and support alone indicated widespread shock and sadness at the senseless loss of such a beautiful young life, and now a GoFundMe set up to help Kyan’s parents Ian and Amanda, and his little sister, through the next few weeks has raised close to $20,000 as of Friday afternoon.

Called “Support for the Pennell family” the GoFundMe has been organised by Eumundi resident Peter Zarb, who said all money raised would be transferred to Kyan’s parents to help support funeral and bereavement costs, and ensure the family could take the time they needed to grieve and heal.

Many of the almost 130 people who have already donated to the fund have given hundreds of dollars, with some donating $500, one donating $1000 and another $3250.

People’s urge to do whatever they can to help the family has shone through.

“On the 31st of January 2022, the Pennell family lost their beloved son to a tragic freak accident,” Mr Zarb posted on the GoFundMe site.

“Kyan, 12, was creative, quirky, talented, funny, animal loving, courageous, a little shy and had a beautiful energy about him. He was a loving son and brother – he was a white light, and the world is a little dimmer without him.

“Ian, Amanda and Lauryn have our deepest sympathies.

“They send special thanks to the amazing Flight Drs, Paramedics, Police personnel and to their neighbours who all fought for over an hour in an attempt to save him.

“We have created this Go Fund Me account to help the beautiful Pennell family out during this difficult time.

“Ian is a kindred spirit - a gentleman warrior. We started training in karate together at my dojo nearly 2 years ago and we became quick friends. His children, Kyan and Lauryn soon joined in. Being their sensei has been rewarding, and being their friend more so. I adore the Pennell family. I enjoyed archery with Kyan, watching him with fierce determination to succeed at what ever he puts his mind to. I love play fighting with Lauryn. I look forward to bbq‘s and bevies with Amanda and Ian. I’ll miss Kyan - in and out of the dojo. We appreciate your support, generosity and compassion.”

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

Twelve-year-old Kyan Pennell was killed in a freak accident at his family's Tuchekoi property on Monday, January 31, 2022.

Among the comments left by those contributing to the campaign were these:

“I am so so sorry to hear about your loss. Thinking of your family from across the globe.”

“It’s heartbreaking.”

“My family is so sad to hear about what happened and wanted to do something support you. I really want to just send a huge bunch of flowers and give you guys a hug.”

“I wish I could do more to help but I hope that this will help ease the burden of everyday life while you take time to grieve. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.”