Heartbreaking news from St Helens—Yan Hodkinson, a beloved dad and partner, has sadly passed away at just 47. Known for being the “life and soul of every party,” Yan was cherished by all who met him.
Yan had been battling health issues for some time, after initially struggling with recurring sore throats. His partner, Jayne Chisnall, described the family’s shock and devastation at the loss. They had been together for 29 years and shared three wonderful children: Jack, Ruby, and Max.
Yan was first diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2023. Despite facing these challenges, he managed to keep his spirits high. When further symptoms appeared last December, it led to a devastating discovery of stage four squamous cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer.
Jayne remembers Yan’s vibrant personality and knack for playing pranks. “Everybody who met him had a funny tale to tell,” she reminisced. His passing is a massive shock, with friends and family paying tribute to his dedication and love for his family.
In June, doctors diagnosed Yan’s cancer as having spread from his tonsil to his tongue and jaw, and further to his neck. Despite initially responding well to treatment, Yan’s health took a sudden turn last Sunday due to complications, leading to his untimely death.
A JustGiving page has been set up in Yan’s memory, aiming to cover funeral costs and support the family. It’s also intended to raise awareness about HPV-related cancers. Due to his illness and Jayne’s need to care for him during his final months, finances have been tight for the family.
Jayne expresses her immense gratitude for the support they’ve received. She hopes Yan’s story can increase awareness about the importance of vaccinations against HPV, now available in schools.
In what has been a tragic year, Jayne says, “Me and the kids will miss him forever.” Let’s rally around this family and support their fundraiser in any way we can. If you’re interested in helping, check out their JustGiving page. ❤️