The family of Chris Rogers and Dave Rogers is planning a joint send-off after the two brothers died within four days of each other. Chris, 42, passed away on 19 June, following the death of his younger brother Dave, 37, who died unexpectedly from a brain aneurysm.
Sudden Health Decline
Dave, who lived in the same block of flats as Chris in Hanley, became unwell suddenly. According to Chris's partner, Claire Louise-Meigh, Dave suffered an aneurysm without warning. "We were having a laugh and a joke with him. Then he just stopped, paused, and dropped," she said. "His face drooped and his pupil blew. A blood vessel had burst in his brain." Dave underwent a 13-hour surgery but was declared brain-dead afterward.
Chris had been battling his own health issues for about six months. A scan revealed liver damage, and doctors said it would regenerate. However, his liver failed to filter toxins, leading to kidney damage and fluid buildup in his body. Claire noted, "It was slowly poisoning him. He started struggling to breathe. We were told he was improving, but then he died less than 24 hours later."
Heartbreaking Loss
Claire described the experience as "absolutely awful." Chris died calling out for his brother, who he was too ill to see before Dave passed. "They never got to say goodbye. I think that just made Chris give up," she said. "There was only four days between them. It’s just devastating."
The brothers were known for their fun-loving personalities and close bond. Claire recalled, "They got on like a house on fire. They were forever playing tricks on each other." Thousands of people reached out on Facebook after Chris's death, reflecting how beloved they were.
Joint Send-Off and Fundraiser
The family is preparing a joint funeral for the brothers and has launched an online fundraiser to cover costs. Claire said, "Their mum is absolutely beside herself. Nobody should have to bury a child, never mind two at the same time." The fundraiser aims to support the family during this difficult time.
