A TEENAGER who always ‘lived her life in full’ never got to return home from a highly-anticipated summer holiday to Greece - after she sustained fatal injuries in a tragic quad bike accident.
Lily-Rae Simpson travelled to Zante this August for what was meant to be a fun-filled girls’ holiday with her best friend, celebrating finishing her beauty studies at Barnsley College.
However, on their first day 19-year-old Lily-Rae was involved in a quad biking accident and suffered serious injuries - no other vehicles were involved.
The teen, from Thurgoland, was flown to Athens where she spent ten days in intensive care, however despite doctors’ best efforts she died on August 21.
Her brother, boxer Callum Simpson - who recently claimed the British, Commonwealth and WBA Continental title at Oakwell - told the Chronicle: “My dad, Donny, and step-mum Kirsten went straight to Athens as soon as they heard.
“They stayed with her in intensive care so saw her every day.
“When she passed I got a call and flew over to be with them and help with repatriation so we could get her back home.
“The loss is hard enough without getting involved with everything that comes from bringing her back from another country.”
Throughout the whole ordeal, Callum and his family were supported by a ‘very good friend’, Professor Peter Giannoudis, who flew over to assist with translations and explain medical procedures.
Callum said that he ‘went above and beyond’ to help and will be eternally grateful.
Lily-Rae was flown home on Saturday.
“Peter has been a true light during one of the darkest times in our lives and we will never forget all he has done for us,” Callum added.
“She was really looking forward to the holiday.
“She lived her life in full and was always looking forward to some holiday or night out, like any teenage girl does.
“Everyone who knew her loved her and she had a passion for making those around her happy and laugh.
“She used to make jokes about being known as ‘Callum Simpson’s sister’ but I know she was so proud of everything I did.
“I want people to remember her for the amazing, kind, fun and sassy person she was.”
Despite remembering the good times and hoping to continue to celebrate the life of his beloved sister, Callum admits that the tragedy has rocked the whole family.
“I’m heartbroken, I lost my little sister, my baby sister,” Callum said.
“I watched her grow up into a beautiful young woman and she had so much she was looking forward to.
“But it’s not only having to deal with her loss, it’s been awful to see my dad and step-mum go through all this.
“We are all having to cope with what’s gone on - it’s all been so difficult to see.”
After a post on social media announcing her death, Callum has received support and tributes from thousands of people.
At Barnsley FC’s match against Bristol Rovers tomorrow, fans are planning on taking part in a one-minute applause during the game’s 19th minute to honour Lily-Rae - Callum is hoping to take his two younger siblings, Lennon, 13, and Nancy, 15.
“We’ve been absolutely overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from not just our family and friends, but from people all across the local community, boxing community, football community and beyond.
“The sheer number of heartfelt messages, calls and posts we’ve received is truly incredible and shows just how much Lily was loved by everyone who knew her.
“Every message and gesture has been a great comfort to us and we’re so grateful to see how many lives Lily touched.
“We’re so thankful for the way people have come together to remember and celebrate her.
“As a family, we’ll always strive to keep Lily’s memory alive in everything we do.
“For me personally, every time I step into the ring, I know she’ll be watching over us, chanting ‘there’s only one Callum Simpson’, just like she always did.
“I’ll do everything I can to make her proud - we’ll always carry her spirit with us.
“I’d also like to say a special thank you to the Barnsley FC community for coming together to make this tribute possible.
“Tomorrow’s applause will be such a beautiful way to remember her.
“We are truly grateful for all the love and compassion that has been shown to our family.”
