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Heartbroken nine-year-old boy killed by lightning says ‘every day is a struggle’ UK News

The mother of a nine-year-old boy who was killed by lightning strike while playing football shared her grief over the heartbreaking loss.

Devastated, Danielle Begg had to face all of her parents’ worst nightmare after the death of her son Jordan Banks on May 11.

The kind-hearted young boy died shortly after being struck in a storm at Common Edge playgrounds in South Shore, Blackpool – just yards from his stepfather Dan Begg.

Danielle said that “every day is a struggle” as the family continues to come to terms with what happened to “selfless” Jordan, reports Lancs Live.

“It was all an adventure and we were part of it. Proud doesn’t come close to how we feel for everything he has done and continues to do,” she continued.

“He had empathy and could sense people’s feelings. Either way, he had it. I think whoever met him loved him instantly, you couldn’t not.

Danielle said her son – well known for his charitable work in his local community – “wanted to help everyone,” adding: “He was a joy, full of life. Cheeky and fun loving.”

In January, he ran 30 miles in memory of his uncle Reece to raise money for Community Counseling, his efforts being recognized by one of his heroes – Liverpool midfielder James Milner.

And after his death, Jordan’s organs were donated to help save the lives of three other children.

Tragic Jordan Banks of Clifton Rangers in Blackpool
Tragic Jordan Banks of Clifton Rangers in Blackpool

“He couldn’t understand why the world would ever be cruel and wanted everyone to be happy,” Danielle said.

She went on to explain that just days before her son died, she had raised money for Brian House Children’s Hospice and was talking to Jordan about the work she was doing.

“We didn’t know we would be part of their families,” she said.

In his hometown, hundreds of flowers and tributes were dropped on the playing fields, including a medal for the winner of an 11-year-old boy on a rival team.

And hundreds of people came out on Sunday in a convoy of vehicles, united in grief.

Liverpool legends Sir Kenny Dalglish, Robbie Fowler and Milner were among Jordan’s heroes to pay tribute to him along with the stars of his favorite TV show Cobra Kai.

The Reds wore ‘Jordan Banks’ on the number 7 jerseys ahead of their clash with Manchester United on Thursday.

Nine soccer emojis continue to be shared on social media in honor of Jordan’s passion for soccer.

Danielle said that every tribute, big and small, has not gone unnoticed.

She added, “The tributes have been overwhelming. We have been comforted by the kindness of our friends and family, but also strangers who never had the pleasure of meeting Jordan.

Jordan Banks, 9, of Blackpool, tragically died after being seriously injured after being struck by lightning on a football pitch
Jordan Banks, 9, of Blackpool, tragically died after being seriously injured after being struck by lightning on a football pitch

“He would have loved to see Liverpool players with his name, Cobra Kai tweets and sports cars with his name too.

“But it’s also the little things, the handmade items, the cards, the gifts for the kids that mean so much.

“We got a message without our address and we just said Jordan and it happened.

“It means so much and while we can’t thank everyone individually, we really appreciate him. He was beyond love.”

Due to the circumstances of Jordan’s death, his family has been placed in the public spotlight in such a short time.

Danielle admits it was difficult to deal with at times.

The family will continue to mourn in private while remaining focused on spreading Jordan’s message of kindness and empathy to others.

Danielle said: “Every day is a struggle, as a family we are doing all we can to continue for Jordan and carry on his legacy. Her sisters and brother give us strength.

“No one should have to lose a child, we take comfort in the fact that his organs were donated and he would have once again helped others.

“He’s irreplaceable, unique. And we just hope that was his destiny. He had done all he could here and he was needed elsewhere.

“We will not stop doing what he has been doing all his life. And let’s hope the others stop and watch their own lives, their kids, and be a little more Jordan. Take these risks, dance, sing, live every moment.

“Go with your family, be kind and help others. Life is too precious to be wasted. Like Jordan, it is a gift.”