COURAGEOUS, committed and dedicated are just some of the words that have been used to describe Andrew Prowse, who lost his battle with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) in early October.
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Born and raised in Tamworth, Mr Prowse dedicated his time to helping others with CF which his wife, Heidi Prowse (nee. Bock) who also grew up in Tamworth, said was a testament to his character.
"He wasn't only living with his own illness, he was helping people go through their hard times," Ms Prowse said.
"I think that shows enormous courage and the human being that he was."
Born in Tamworth on April 30 1987, Mr Prowse attended Oxley High School and later moved to Canberra where he worked as a Policy Analyst at the Department of Social Services, a career that reflected his desire to help people and communities.
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Despite both growing up in Tamworth, it wasn't until they were both living in Canberra that Andrew and Heidi fell in love and married in 2015.
"I fell in love with him from across the room," Mrs Prowse said.
"His approach to life just drew everybody in."
Together Mr and Mrs Prowse committed not only to each other, but to raising awareness and helping others with CF.
In 2012, the pair dreamt up the 'Speedo Santa Shuffle' a fundraiser that got people walking, running or shuffling in red speedos in the middle of winter, which has raised $800,000 for people in Canberra living with CF.
As a man that always put others before himself, Mr Prowse also shared his experience and support as a volunteer for the mental health organisation MIEACT and Donate Life, a foundation close to his heart after receiving a double lung transplant in 2017.
"Sharing his story really started to impact the community because people felt like they weren't on their own anymore," Mrs Prowse said.
"That's what he did everyday."
Andrew lost his battle with Cystic Fibrosis on October 8.
Mrs Prowse said his legacy would live on and be a constant reminder to live everyday and find purpose and meaning.
"Andy did that by supporting his community, being devoted to his wife and surrounding himself with love, family and friends."
For a man who has impacted enough lives to fill a football stadium, Mrs Prowse was devastated restrictions would place limits on the funeral.
"Andy deserves a big send off."
A celebration of Andrew's life will be held in Canberra on Monday. Due to restrictions the funeral will be livestreamed, for more information visit https://funeralstre.am/andrew-prowse
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