Tribute to Westhoughton photographer, 60, who died after sudden heart attack

Mark Lysycia took up photography around 15 years ago as a hobby.

He was heavily involved with several running groups in the area, including Howfen Runners and Astley and Tyldesley Road Runners.

After suffering an injury he began photographing race events, he became well-known in the running community and he donated money raised from his photos to charity.

On April 1 Mark suffered a severe heart attack which led to cardiac arrest.

After resuscitation he was transferred to Wythenshawe Hospital Intensive Care Unit where he remained in a coma for two weeks.

He had sustained irreversible brain injury due to the lack of oxygen and life support was withdrawn on April 15.

His family launched a fundraiser for the staff at the hospital, with over £4,700 being donated so far.

Mark left behind his wife Lesley, daughters Gemma and Sophie and a granddaughter.

Tributes have been paid to Mark Lysycia

Gemma said: "He was amazing, a really awesome dad.

"He was always so happy and would have a big smile on his face all the time.

"Dad was very supportive of us and very encouraging; he loved life and lived it to the full.

"He was the best dad and like a best friend.

"When we had his funeral on April 30 people lined Chorley Old Road to say goodbye to him, everyone was very supportive.

"It was hard having a Covid funeral with only 30 people but that's the world we live in.

"Dad loved his photography, he was completely self-taught and would attend the race events where everyone knew him.

"He donated the money from it to charity, and even did weddings and other events."

Mark Lysycia with her wife Lesley

While Mark was in hospital, staff at Wythenshawe Hospital ensured that his family were kept updated and informed.

To say thank you for the care they provided, Gemma set up a Justgiving page.

She added: "The staff were incredible, they went above and beyond.

"They made sure he was comfortable, they spoke to him and washed his hair. They called us regularly about how his was doing.

"They tried very hard to get him through but his life support was withdrawn as the brain injury was too great.

"Dad was incredible fit and healthy, they said that his heart attack was unpredictable and unpreventable.

"We wanted to raise money for them because they helped us so much, it's done really well and we've raised over £4,700.

"We've had lots of nice messages messages from everyone who knew him."

You can donate to the Justgiving page here.