Support for family of 'gentle giant' who died during workout on Thailand holiday 'humbling'
Harley Fowler died suddenly when working out in Thailand.
The friend of a Kiwi exercise junkie who died suddenly while working out in Thailand says the family of the "gentle giant" finds the widespread support they've received "humbling".
The 33-year-old dad, Harley Fowler, was squeezing in one last holiday workout before his flight back to New Zealand on Wednesday evening when he collapsed.
He was there celebrating his second anniversary with wife, Amanda, who friends say has been alone since his death.
Fowler and wife Amanda were overseas celebrating their second wedding anniversary when it happened.
"She called my husband when it happened, he collapsed when training and died in front of her ... we don't know what happened," Quanita Taurua said.
Taurua and Fowler, father of Kalani, 2, and stepsons Jakey and Jordan, both worked as trainers at CrossFit Hibiscus Coast in Whangaparaoa.
"It's heartbreaking for us all, we're all really close to the both of them," she said.
He also leaves behind three children.
"He was a gentle giant, massive, and in the best shape he's ever been, just training and eating well ... he was a real character; people just loved him.
"Our CrossFit community is absolutely broken, we just can't believe he's gone."
Taurua set up a Givealittle page to get them both back to New Zealand. "Let's get the big fella home".
Since the Thursday morning, there had been more than 200 donations and more than $21,000 has been raised for Fowler and his family.
"Support has been so incredibly humbling, and Amanda and her family are so very grateful," Taurua said.
"Anything to help the family is received with love."
One donator said "my heart hurts for you all and thinking about you and your family Amanda".
"You are one incredibly strong woman and this amazing crossfit community is around you during this tough time. Sending tons of love."
Another donator said "never blessed enough to meet you but sounds like you have touched a lot of people along your journey".
- Stuff
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