By Violet Li
A fundraising campaign has been launched to support the funeral expenses of a Cranbourne East man who drowned on Friday 12 January.
Sahil Panwar, a 25-year-old man originally from Haryana in North India, was swept out to sea in the vicinity of the Bourne Creek Trestle Bridge at Kilcunda Surf Beach at about 8.30pm when he was trying to retrieve his sunglasses in the water.
He was found unresponsive on the beach about an hour later.
Coming to Australia in 2016 as a student, Mr Panwar was a hard-working cabinet maker before the tragedy.
He was also a beloved husband, son, brother, and friend, known for his infectious laughter, warm spirit, and zest for life, according to his cousin Sunil Kumar who launched the GoFundMe fundraising page.
“His absence has left a void that can never be filled, but together, we can alleviate the financial strain that has descended upon his family,” he wrote on the GoFundMe page.
Mr Kumar said Mr Panwar’s wife was shattered learning about the sudden death of her husband.
He set up the fundraising campaign to assist the family in covering funeral costs, memorial services, and other unforeseen expenses.
“Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful impact and show his family that they are not alone during this difficult time,” he said.
“The pain of losing a loved one is immeasurable, but our collective compassion and support can make a tangible difference.”
The campaign has a target of $55,000 and the family has received around $53,000 after seven days of fundraising.
Mr Panwar’s body has been transported back to India. Mr Kumar said his family would go back to India soon for the funeral.
To help, go to gofundme.com/f/help-sahils-family-in-the-wake-of-tragic-loss
