THE family of a young father-of-two who collapsed and died from an undiagnosed heart condition have told how they hope his organs will give others the gift of life.
Ciaran Fitzsimons (32) was found outside his home in Colin Mill, Poleglass on Sunday morning after going out to get some fresh air.
Relatives said he had complained of indigestion the previous evening and woke at around 6am still feeling unwell.
The west Belfast man was found by his wife Maurica who raised the alarm but despite frantic attempts to resuscitate him he died at the scene.
His shocked family were told that he had died of an underlying heart condition.
In a moving tribute, grief-stricken relatives described Mr Fitzsimons as someone who "would always do his best to help anyone".
They also spoke of how they respected his wish to become an organ donor, saying it was testament to his character to think of others.
"Ciaran gave his all in life and in a tragic and sudden death his wishes were still to give his all," they said.
"Ciaran's wishes to be an organ donor have been respected and while family, friends and colleagues are gathered in grief we find comfort in the families Ciaran is still helping."
Requiem Mass for the Child Support Agency worker, who also worked part-time as a pizza delivery driver, will take place this morning at the Church of the Nativity in Poleglass.
His family said he would be remembered as a loving husband and "attentive, caring and nurturing father" to his sons Caolan (9) and one-year-old Cuan.
They also urged anyone else feeling unexpectedly well to seek medical help.
Parish priest Fr Pat Sheehan said the Fitzsimons family, friends and wider family circle were "still in shock" at the sudden death, but took comfort in knowing that his organs would give the "wondrous gift of life to others".
"They're a nice family, Ciaran was certainly a very good guy. Out of this awful sad tragedy he has donated his organs so that others can enjoy life."
