A legacy of love

all our lives.

A family who lost their son to suspected suicide are hoping to help other grieving families through a foundation set up in his memory.

Quinn Morton-Sands died in February, just 10 days after celebrating his 17th birthday. His grieving family now hopes to raise as much money as possible to help other parents facing the same heartbreak.

Step Mum Kellie Morton, who Quinn called his “bonus mum” says they are determined to try and bring something positive out of the tragedy.

“It’s a parent’s worst nightmare. Our lives have been shattered and will never be the same again. A piece of us has gone forever, we hold onto all the precious memories and we are so thankful for all the photos we have. ‘His death has left a massive hole in

“If we can help families who also have to face this devastating journey in their lives, then something positive has come out of the hardest period of our lives.”

Quinn was a much-loved son, brother, uncle, grandson, nephew and cousin. His sudden death has hit everyone very hard, Kellie says. About 650 people attended his funeral service at the ASB Theatre, paying tribute to a young man who had a bright future ahead of him, she adds.

Quinn’s death was the second tragedy to hit the family that terrible day in February, Kellie says. Quinn’s dad Philip Morton lost his mum on the same day.

“We got a call when we were at the rest home about an hour after mum had passed away, telling us about Quinn.”