This morning, I learned about the death of LGBT+ journalist, Dean Eastmond. I wasn't a close friend of his by any means; I had only conversed with him a couple of times on the phone and online, but the affect he had on me and on the LGBT+ community was profound.
He was diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma last year and his story has been well documented recently and for good reason. Throughout his cancer battle, he continued to fight for LGBT rights, including highlighting how same-sex couples can't access the others frozen sperm sample if the worst should happen. It's a horrifying and needless inequality that existed and I have to admit I had no idea about it, but Dean worked tirelessly to bring the issue to the public eye. All whilst fighting an aggressive form of cancer.
[You can read his article on the issue here : http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/cancer-diagnosis-young-age-20-being-gay-lgbt-infertility-sperm-freezing-didnt-expect-to-make-it-a7166311.html]
It feels very odd to grieve for someone I barely knew. I feel like I don't have a right to grieve as his friends and family do, but I feel very sad that Dean has passed away. He was a selfless man who had time for everyone, a very talented journalist and by all accounts a marvellous friend. It was a genuine honour of mine to write for the magazine he co-founded, HISKIND, which has become one of my favourite publications due to it's refreshing outlook on LGBT issues. It also featured our documentary on homophobia in football and ended up being one of my favourite summaries of the project.
There's not a lot more to say. Today is a very sad day and Dean leaves behind many loving friends and family. He will be hugely missed. Rest in Peace.
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