Jo & Dave Seager & Dan Levey 

Milestone birthdays are always difficult for those who have lost a loved one. For Joanne Seager, September 15th marked what should have been her son Liam’s 30th birthday. Liam was tragically killed by a speeding motorist on New Year’s Day 2019 at the age of 24. This year, instead of a celebration, Joanne anticipated a quiet, sad day for the family.

However, thanks to Liam’s incredible friends, the day became something very different. His close friend, Dan Levey, organised a birthday party at Gosnells Bar in Bermondsey, bringing together family, old schoolmates, college and university friends to celebrate Liam’s life. The event even featured a custom beer in his honour – “My Rig 2.0” – as a nod to Liam’s love of a good party.

Joanne shared her gratitude for the evening, saying: “Liam loved a party, and he would have especially loved this one – family and friends all together. His sisters, his dad and I were so grateful for the outpouring of love we received from everyone there and to all those who gave up their time to organise and DJ on the night.”

Dan’s efforts didn’t stop at just organising the event. He also had T-shirts made and the event raised an incredible £750 for RoadPeace, a charity close to Joanne’s heart.

Reflecting on why RoadPeace is so important to her, Joanne said: “I chose RoadPeace because they have helped me so much. My Befriender helped me navigate my darkest days, and she still checks in with me five years later. Now, being a Befriender myself to other bereaved parents, I can be that understanding voice at the other end of the line.”

Liam’s 30th birthday, though bittersweet, became a day filled with love and remembrance, bringing together family and friends in a tribute that honoured his memory and supported an important cause.

Updated on: 31 October 2024