Devastated family of Claire Fraser raise £10k to repatriate body back home to Orkney

Devastated Family Fundraises £10k to Repatriate Claire Fraser’s Body

The family of Claire Fraser, a student who tragically took her own life at a university in Aberdeen, has raised nearly £10,000 to bring her body back home to Orkney. Claire, 19, had been battling with her mental health following the traumatic death of her brother, William, who was fatally stabbed by their uncle two years ago. Claire’s passing occurred on November 20 while she was a student at Robert Gordon University. Police responded to the incident at the campus on Garthdee Road after an early morning alert and confirmed the teenager’s death at the scene.

Her mother, Fiona, shared how Claire had been struggling to cope after the loss of her brother and expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received. The family initiated a fundraising campaign to cover the costs of repatriating Claire’s body to Orkney, her hometown. Fiona extended her thanks to all the donors who generously contributed to the GoFundMe page, surpassing the initial target of £4,000.

Claire’s mother explained the painful journey their family had endured, noting Claire’s profound struggles following her brother’s tragic death. William Fraser, 21, was brutally killed by their uncle Erlend Fraser in 2022, through a fatal stabbing incident. Erlend Fraser was convicted of culpable homicide due to diminished responsibility, owing to a diagnosed learning disability.

The devastating impact of William’s death on the family was evident during the trial, with Judge Lord Matthews acknowledging the profound loss experienced by his loved ones. The family’s anguish was compounded by Claire’s subsequent struggles, leading to her untimely death. Police investigations confirmed no suspicious circumstances surrounding Claire’s passing, with plans to submit a report to the Procurator Fiscal.

The community’s support and generosity have been pivotal in aiding the Fraser family through this challenging time, facilitating Claire’s final journey back to Orkney. The heartfelt contributions and acts of kindness have provided solace to the grieving family as they navigate this tragic loss.

Insights:
The story of Claire Fraser and her family showcases the enduring impact of mental health struggles and the ripple effects of traumatic events within a family. It highlights the importance of community support and solidarity in times of profound grief and loss. The fundraising efforts and outpouring of generosity serve as a testament to the compassion and empathy found within society, offering comfort and assistance to those in need during overwhelming circumstances.

In summary, the heartbreaking tale of Claire Fraser’s passing and her family’s resilience in the face of tragedy underscores the profound impact of mental health challenges and the enduring bond of community support during times of immense sorrow.