AFTER losing her son when he was just 23, a Malvern woman wants everyone to know about the charity that supported her.

Tanya Killaby's son Mark Whyatt died in Bradford in January from multiple organ failure, after contracting pneumonia.

A recovering drug addict, he had been clean for two years before his death.

"You never know what's round the corner," said Mrs Killaby. "You don't think it's going to happen to your own."

It was Worcestershire charity Parents Experiencing Adult Loss (PEAL) that helped Mrs Killaby, who is disabled, through a very difficult time.

The charity is currently fund-raising to enable it to continue after using up initial lottery funding.

PEAL was formed six years ago to help parents who have lost a child over 16, by offering one-to-one counselling and group support. Many parents who contact the charity have lost their children suddenly as a result of accidents, drug abuse, suicide or violent crime.

Angela Gerrard, PEAL's support coordinator, said: "Circumstances like these can make coping with the bereavement very hard for the parents."

Last weekend, Mrs Killaby was involved in a collection outside Waitrose in Malvern which raised £538.

However, more funds are needed while the charity waits to hear if grant applications are successful.

Anyone willing to support PEAL should call 01905 729911. For its family support services, call 01905 723001.