Daughter’s touching tribute to Atherton dad with rare heart condition

Russell Roberts, 51, died on March 15 in Bolton Hospital, surrounded by his loved ones.

The father-of-two had a rare heart condition.

He was born with only one heart ventricle and developed Eisenmenger syndrome.

Defying all the odds of his condition, he lived life to the full and was known as a “pillar of the community” in Atherton, where he was born and bred.

Daughter, Lilly Roberts, 17, is raising thousands of pounds for the Critical Care Unit to thank the staff for the exceptional care her father received and the support shown to her family.

On May 31, she will take on the Great Manchester Run, hoping to complete the 10k course.

Lilly said the staff “went above and beyond” during the brief time her father spent in the ward before his death.

“Whenever they updated us on what was happening, they made sure we were okay and wouldn’t take no for an answer if we hadn’t eaten,” she explained.

Lilly said that being in a large family room gave them the chance to spend precious final days with Russell.

“They were just amazing and we couldn’t fault them,” she added.

Lilly and Russell Roberts (Image: Supplied)

When Russell first went into hospital, Lilly and her mum, Rachel, were stuck in Thailand due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Lilly said: “The doctors shared as much information as the family wanted us to have, and as soon as we arrived, they were really wonderful.”

Rachel and Russell met in a local Atherton pub, going on to build a life together for more than 25 years.

Lilly’s older brother, Samuel, 25, stayed with their father from the moment he went into hospital, never leaving his side.

Reflecting on her father’s life and legacy, Lilly said he spent much of his childhood in and out of hospital because of his heart condition.

Lilly said: “When he was 16, he said he had spent his life undergoing tests and procedures and decided to handle things on his own.

“He made it to 51, played every sport, went raving with my mum, and then had two kids.

“He took us everywhere, we did every sport too, and we never knew there was anything different about our family.”

Russell was a huge Manchester United fan and sat on the committee for Atherton Cricket Club, where Lilly and Samuel played.

An entrepreneur in property and a lifelong salesman at Firstcom Europe UK, Russell was described by doctors as nothing short of a “miracle”, Lilly said.

Discussing her friendship with her father, Lilly said: “Growing up, I was always with my dad, often spending more time with him than with my friends.

“We had a really special connection, we both just understood each other.

“He did amazing things in his life, and I have high ambitions too.

“A lot of people have told me not to let his death set me back, but it’s only made me stronger and more determined.”

Lilly and Russell Roberts (Image: Supplied)

Lilly attends Manchester College, studying media, with hopes of entering the marketing industry in the future.

She has already raised over £2,500 for Bolton Hospital through her fundraising page, www.gofundme.com/f/run-for-russ.

“He was a pillar of the community, brought people together and always helped everyone,” Lilly said.

Atherton businesses and community groups have also paid heartfelt tributes to Russell.

Atherton Cricket Club said: “On behalf of the committee, members, players and the community of Atherton, it’s with great sadness and a heavy heart that we offer our condolences to the family of Russell Roberts.

“Russ has contributed so much to Atherton Cricket Club and our community over the years.

“He served our club, his friends and community with distinction.

“Russ was a dedicated father and husband, who was not only a great role model to the people close to him, but provided a link between the Atherton community and businesses, sports clubs and beyond.

“Russ, we are grateful for everything you have done, and you will always be remembered as a gentleman.

“Your legacy will make everyone smile. We are all grateful and honoured to have had you as our friend.”

Russell Roberts (Image: Supplied)

The Snug Coffee House on Market Street said: “We were deeply saddened to hear about the passing of an Atherton legend and a Snug regular, Russell Roberts.

“Russell wasn’t just a customer, he was part of The Snug’s Friday club.

“A friendly face, a chat at the counter, someone who helped make this place what it is, and the only person that could fix our internet issues.

“He will be truly missed by all of us here.

“His daughter Lilly is doing a sponsored run in his memory, and we’d love to support her in any way we can.

“If you’re able to donate, no matter how small, it would mean the world and help honour Russell in a really special way.

“Sending all our love to Rachel, Lilly and their family at this incredibly difficult time.”

The Talbot Atherton pub on Gadbury Fold described Russell as “such a kind and caring person who always wore a smile on his face, no matter what.”

A funeral service celebrating Russell’s life and legacy was held at Howe Bridge Crematorium on 1 April, with a wake at his local, the Atherton Arms.

To support Lilly’s fundraiser, visit: www.gofundme.com/f/run-for-russ or search Go Fund Me Run for Russ.