A CO Derry family have hailed the "super stars" from the Kevin Bell Reparation Trust for bringing home the remains of their 20-year-old son, as they donated £10,000 to the charity raised in just four months.
Zachary Geddis, from Coleraine, was a student at the University of the Arts in London when took his own life in March at his halls of residence.
His devastated family was put in touch with the Trust which which helps the families of people who have died outside Northern Ireland.
The charity works to alleviate the financial hardship of bereaved families and makes the necessary arrangements to bring their loved ones back home.
Last week, the Geddis family along with members of the Zanshin Shotokan Karate Club, friends, family and Sensei Frank Brennan 8th Dan from the Karate Union of Great Britain presented the Trust with a cheque for £10,000.
The family told how travelling to London they were put in touch with the charity by a family member and were overwhelmed by the efficiency and support they found.
"With only three emails the arrangements were made to have Zachary make his final journey across the water home to his family by boat and he was never left alone," his sister Yasmin said.
"This took place within six days of him passing and could have taken three weeks without their assistance. (We were able) to bring Zachary Geddis home to Northern Ireland with speed and dignity."
Zachary's mother Louise praised the Trust during the presentation, thanking them for what they did for the family and thanking the supporters, saying: "They are all superstars", - a comment that Zachary used often to highlight his love for those close to him.
Yasmin raised £4,500 through her GoFundMe Page and collection boxes were filled in coffee shops and bars.
Fundraisers were also held by the Banshee Irish Dancing Club and the Encore Theatre Company, with other private donations.
The Geddis Family are now planning on starting up the 'ZG Trust' in in Zachary’s memory to help other families cope with bereavement.
A fundraising quiz night will be held in Shenanigan's (Bar 7) on Friday August 25.
