A Belfast school is paying tribute to the memory of a young Belfast dad, who passed away suddenly from a heart attack just over a year ago. John Taggart, from the Shankill Road area, sadly left us in the early hours of Sunday, January 21, 2024, at the age of 38. He was sitting in his chair and never woke up. He is survived by his devastated mother, Ann; two young children, Taylor and Katie; his partner Linda; three sisters, Margaret, Ann, and Christine; two brothers, Hughie and Billy, and numerous nieces and nephews. John, a well-known figure, began his journey in landscape gardening at the age of 12 with just a strimmer and lawnmower. His hard work ethic led him to establish his own business, JT Property Services.
The community at Cliftonville Integrated Primary School, where John’s daughter attends, recently organized a fundraising walk in his memory to support the Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke charity. The initial goal was to raise £1,000, but they surpassed all expectations by collecting an outstanding £5,500. Bill Fletcher, the school principal, expressed his gratitude towards the incredible generosity shown by parents, staff, and students. The charity holds a special place in their hearts as it has supported many within the school community. Gavin Adams, the Director of Income Generation at NICHS, commended the school for their tremendous effort, emphasizing the impact of their contribution on the local community.
The funds raised will enable the charity to continue providing essential services to individuals and families affected by chest, heart, and stroke conditions in Northern Ireland. With approximately 400,000 people living with such conditions in the region, the support from the public is crucial for the organization’s operations. NICHS relies heavily on donations to carry out research, health checks, and life-changing initiatives. The collaboration with Cliftonville Integrated Primary School exemplifies the power of community-driven efforts in making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
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So, there you have it – the heartwarming story of a community coming together to honor a beloved member and support a vital cause. The impact of their actions goes beyond the funds raised; it represents unity, compassion, and the strength of collective efforts in creating positive change. As we navigate through life’s challenges, let us remember the power of kindness and generosity in making a difference, no matter how big or small.
