Leith-based comic book artist Gordon Shaw has died at the age of 41.
After first being told he had suffered a stroke, Gordon was diagnosed with a low-grade brain tumour at the age of 32. The tumour eventually progressed into a grade 3 astrocytoma.
In December last year, the artist was told his tumour had again progressed into a highly aggressive glioblastoma and he was given months to live. Gordon’s brother Craig posted to Facebook after his death, writing: “I’m not quite sure how to write this but here goes.
READ MORE - Edinburgh comic book artist living with brain tumour has story brought to life in new film
“My brother Gordon passed away peacefully yesterday afternoon with his partner Shawn by his side, the way I know he would have wanted it. At this time I can’t put into words how much we all loved him, he was an incredible young man who not only fought this horrible for 10 years but went out his way to help others along that journey.
“To say I’m proud of him doesn’t really seem enough.”
Gordon had been working with Brain Tumour Research, a charity dedicated to finding a cure for all types of brain tumours. They quickly posted a tribute to him, stating: “We remember Gordon as we continue our work to raise awareness of this devastating disease and to fund research to help find a cure.
“He will be forever in our hearts.”
Since his diagnosis, Gordon published five comic books helping people understand cancer. The first three looked at families and friends, and what it was like for them to live with a loved one's diagnosis.
He also produced a comic on his own experience, as well as one book focusing on unpaid carers.
After writing the series of comic books, Gordon’s journey became the subject of a BBC documentary - Long Live My Happy head. The film premiered at the BFI Flare Festival, and was shown at cinemas across the UK.
The documentary also featured Gordon’s partner Shawn, who posted to his Facebook account after his death. He wrote: “Yesterday afternoon, my partner Gordon Shaw passed away.
“For the past week his brother Craig and I have held vigil, wept tears, shared laughter and surrounded Gordon with love. Many thanks to those who sent messages, videos or stopped in to tell stories, hold his hand and reminisce - he was heroic, truly, truly heroic.
“I don’t really have any words right now. The world is a better place for having Gordon in it, I am a better man due to his love.”
More information on Brain Tumour Research, and Gordon's story can be found here.
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