Huddersfield Daily Examiner journalist Adrian Sudbury has died.

Adrian, 27, fought a public battle with leukaemia after being diagnosed with the disease in 2006.

He chronicled his fight in his award-winning Baldy’s Blog which won him an army of followers and fans around the world.

Adrian died with his family beside him at their home in Nottinghamshire.

His father Keith said: “Adrian died peacefully in his sleep. Every parent thinks their son or daughter is special and we are no different.

“Adrian touched all who knew him. We’re very proud of all his achievements in, tragically, such a short time.

“Kay and I hope that all Adrian’s good work will be continued by all those who knew and loved him.”

In 2003, Adrian started his journalism career with the Express and Chronicle Series, in Holmfirth, before moving to the Examiner three years later where he eventually became a digital journalist.

He was diagnosed with leukaemia in November 2006, just days after starting his new job, after driving himself to hospital complaining of flu-like symptoms.

Doctors discovered he was suffering from two different strains of the disease running at the same time. According to medical literature, he was the only person in the world to have the condition.

He began chronicling his battle with the disease in his Baldy’s Blog as a small project for the Examiner’s website but it eventually took on a life of its own, winning him awards both at home and in America.

After a bone marrow transplant was rejected by his body, Adrian decided in May not to undergo any further chemotherapy, instead devoting his remaining months to raising awareness about bone marrow transplants.

He embarked on a concerted media campaign, hoping to make classes on blood, organ and bone marrow transplantation compulsory in all UK sixth form colleges.

His crusade brought him personal phone calls from Gordon Brown and a mention during Prime Minister’s Questions as well as interviews on Five News, Radio 5 and Al Jazeera.

The Prime Minister said today: “Adrian Sudbury was a true hero whose selflessness and courage made him an inspiration to all who knew him and to many who didn’t.

“Adrian’s campaign to raise awareness about blood, bone marrow and organ donation has already attracted thousands of supporters, myself among them, and his memory will continue to inspire action for many years to come.

“I spoke to Adrian last Wednesday and his campaigning spirit and his optimism remained undimmed. My thoughts are with his family at this time and I know they will be proud that Adrian’s achievements will continue to help others after he has gone.”

Sly Bailey, chief executive of the Examiner’s parent company Trinity Mirror, said: “Adrian was a wonderful colleague and quite simply a brilliant journalist and we shall never forget him.

“His story has touched all of us at Trinity Mirror and won the hearts of the nation.

“He showed tremendous strength and courage throughout his illness to raise awareness of bone marrow donation and always conducted himself with dignity and good humour.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of this hugely inspirational young man.”

There will be a private family funeral followed by a service of remembrance at Sheffield Cathedral at a date to be confirmed.

An online book of condolence has been set up on the Daily Examiner’s website and you can also leave a tribute at memorial website Lasting Tribute.

A group has also been set up on social networking site Facebook where photos and videos are being posted.

Comments

Fredd (20/08/2008 10:50:40)
The boy done good. Sadly missed.

Jack (20/08/2008 11:02:45)
A very sad day. Obviously a talented reporter who would have gone far.

stevew (20/08/2008 22:06:17)
If more people joined the bone marrow register, fewer people would die. In Adrian’s name, Google Anthony Nolan today and join up. It’s quick, painless (honest, I’ve been there) and you just might get the chance, have the privilege, of being able to save someone’s life – how good would that be?