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MAFS' Cathy Evans shares heartbreaking family tragedy: 'I'm sorry'
"I lost my brother too early in this life."
Former MAFS star Cathy Evans has taken to Instagram to announce the heartbreaking news of the loss of her older brother Ben on Boxing Day at just 36 years old.
The reality star shared several images of her brother, writing, "RIP to my brother 29.01.1987 - 26.12.2023."
She shared her post in Thai, and after translation, it reads: "Early morning I lost my brother too early in this life. Unexpectedly and suddenly, I flew to New Zealand... after hearing what happened.
"It's a regular day his last day on earth was Christmas. Spending it with the newlywed wife, son and his family. I'm sorry I [wasn't] home for Christmas
"But I'm glad to know that you're passing on that peace, love, and happiness in your heart after all you've been through and that you're surrounded by all your loved ones in the house."
Cathy shared a link to Give A Little page on her Instagram Stories, for people to donate to have Ben's body sent back to Thailand, where he had always wanted to be laid to rest.
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"Since he was a healthy and young man, Ben did not have life insurance, and since his sudden death - we (his family) were not prepared for the costs that come with repatriation (transportation of his body back to Thailand)," the page reads.
"At this current time - we still do not have exact reasons for his death - but that he suffered a potential cardiac arrest," it adds. "Those of you who knew Ben, know that he has had a very troubled last 2 years. It brings us comfort in our hearts that for his last day on earth, he spent Christmas Day with his new loving wife, his son Inam and his family of mum, dad and sister. He died in the night surrounded by his nearest and dearest."
Ben had recently married his wife Siriluk on November 21 earlier this year, and she had only arrived in New Zealand to be with him on December 14.
Cathy's followers shared their condolences, with one user writing, "Losing a sibling always seems to be something not many understand. We seem to be the 'forgotten' grievers. I’m sending you so much love right now. Please take it easy on yourself."
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"I’m so sorry for you and your family's loss 🥺 it’s never easy losing a loved one sending so much love your way," another said.
"Sending plenty of love," fellow former MAFS star Cam Merchant wrote.
"Sending love and [prayers]," MAFS' Cyrell Paule added.
"RIP bro, I wish we had more time," one of Ben's friends commented. "Thank you for welcoming me into your family with open arms. You are missed."
"He loved you as if you were his real brother," Cathy responded. "I wish we had more time."
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