THE FRIEND and classmate of a Bromsgrove School student known for his steady kindness has paid tribute to him by running 1km for each year of his tragically short life.
Faisal Tukur, a pupil from Bromsgrove School, ran 15km around the School grounds in honour of his friend, Namsong Rai, who died aged 15 in October after living with cancer for two years.
Faisal took on the challenge to run one kilometre for each year of Namsong’s life. He has now raised almost £8,000 for charity.
Faisal said: “Namsong’s death left a quiet space in our School and in everyone who knew him.
“He spent his days at Bromsgrove School with a calm presence that people noticed, even when he said nothing.
“He shaped the Bromsgrovian community in his own way.
“Students and staff knew him for his steady kindness and his gentle way of moving through each day.”
He added that he wanted the run in memory of Namsong to carry his story and values forward.
Half of the donations will support cancer research, and the other half will support people in Gaza.
Faisal added: “This was one of his final wishes.
“He wanted his name to bring help to people who lived with fear and loss every day.
“Namsong found comfort where others saw nothing. That taught me to slow down and see life differently. Having him as my friend shaped me. I will hold that for a long time.”
Bromsgrove School also paid tribute to their former student Namsong in its newsletter.
A statement read: “Namsong had been unwell for some time, and he will be deeply missed by his many friends, by staff, and of course by his family.
“Namsong joined Bromsgrove School as a boarder in the Prep School when he was ten.
“He was a much-respected member of the community – kind, talented, and always eager to make the most of the opportunities available to him.
“At his very moving funeral, held at the start of half term, parents, friends, and several staff who had known him especially well came together to pay tribute.
“Some of Namsong’s friends took part in the service in a fitting reflection of the warmth and affection he inspired in others.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Namsong’s parents, sister, and wider family. He was, in every sense, a Bromsgrovian through and through.”
Visit www.gofundme.com/f/15-km-run-in-honour-of-namsong-rai to donate.
