GoFundMe launched for Handsworth grad who died from COVID

A GoFundMe page has been launched for a 46-year-old former Handsworth grad who died at home from COVID-19.

Reid Hance passed away in his sleep at his Tsawwassen home.

Nadine Johnstone, a family friend, said Reid’s wife Melissa and two boys, Liam and Luke, are grieving the loss of an exceptional man, husband and father.

“Reid was such a bright light, he was everyone’s friend, he loved the outdoors, he loved his family.  Liam, Luke and Melissa will miss him in everything they do, every day,” Johnstone said.

She called upon the community to support the family in their hour of need.

“If you know the Hance’s then you know how much they’ve contributed in our community to make all our lives richer. This family has gone above and beyond for those around them, they are dedicated to giving back, raising money, bringing joy and helping make their community incredible. Providing for his family was Reid’s top priority,” she said.

Reid’s widow, Melissa told the North Shore Daily Post her family tested positive for COVID-19 at the end of March. Although Melissa and the boys had mild symptoms, Reid’s symptoms escalated quickly.  He started getting chills, had a bad cough and fever and felt quite felt worn out.

On April 13, they called health authorities to book an appointment that week. The family also spoke to a nurse, and Reid told her he didn’t need any immediate medical attention. The next morning, Melissa found that he had passed away while sleeping on the couch.

Melissa said she fought with the health authorities for a postmortem, which revealed Reid had pneumonia. “His lungs had given away,” she said.