Express & Star comment: Farewell Stephen, you did us proud

The word 'inspirational' has been associated countless times with Stephen Sutton. more

There are insufficient words to do justice to the courage, dignity, warmth, selflessness, modesty, talents and brilliance of this remarkable young man.

He has been taken from the world at a devastatingly young age due to the cruelty of cancer.

But Stephen achieved in a short space of time what many could only dream of accomplishing if they lived to a ripe old age.

With the help of an army of supporters, well-wishers and celebrities whom Stephen charmed by sharing his story over the internet, he raised well over £3 million to help other young people suffering from this wicked illness.

And in so doing he has shown others the answer to the question of how one person can make a difference.

No-one would have blamed Stephen if he had wanted to howl in rage at the injustice of what was happening inside his body.

Instead he changed everyone's perception of the Big C, forcing it under the spotlight and showing that there was more to living with cancer than suffering.

Stephen Sutton turned the inevitability of an early death into creating a fighting chance for others to have a life and to live the all-too-few days he was given to their fullest.

He got his old school into the Guinness Book of World Records by gathering 500 people to make a heart-shaped gesture. He persuaded others to join him on a sky dive, some of whom would have had to confront their fear and do something they might never otherwise have been prepared to try.

Our best wishes and most sincere condolences go to Stephen's family today as they begin life remembering their son.

We know they will take comfort from the pride they will feel at all he achieved and at the immeasurable wave of love and support shown by people all over the world who never had the privilege to meet him but who have learned from his example.

It is a trait held by only a very select few to be able to confront the darkest hours of life - those in which we are told the moments are growing few - and to dedicate them to helping others.

A unique and beautiful individual has departed the world.

But Stephen Sutton will never be forgotten.