The mother of 19-year-old Jordan Blackburn has suggested her devastated son is suffering from 'survivor's guilt' following the death of his friend, Christian Pay, who passed away after ingesting illegal drugs at the Kendal Calling music festival in Cumbria last week.

Speaking to the BBC, Alison Turnball explained that her son, who was hospitialised after falling seriously ill at the four-day event, is determined to highlight the consequences of drug abuse and will urge fellow teens to consider the implications of their actions.

Alison reflected on the moment she learned of her son and his friend's activities, saying: "I thought my world was about to end, I really did. I knew about Christina and I just thought, 'This is it.' I just thought we'd lost him."
 


Taking to Facebook to highlight the dangers of ingesting illegal substances, Jordan uploaded a photo of himself in a coma and wrote: "Many lives over the weekend, not just those lost, but the families of those involved have been destroyed, including my own by the careless use of uppers at festivals."

Urging people to consider the potential outcome of their decisions, Jordan says: "I really think I need to raise awareness and show people what the consequences are of just a little pill. Just please think hard about what you're putting in your body."

Alison, who agreed with her son when he insisted he had been given a second chance at life, has opened up about the impact his ill-fated decision has had on him, saying: "Physically, he's fine. He's still really tired, his body has been through a lot. Mentally, he's coping OK, but I think he's got what I would term as survivor's guilt."
 


Echoing his mum's sentiments,  Jordan writes: "I've been lucky enough to have a second chance at life and I'm clinging to every part for me and Chris. Miss you mate, I'll make you proud."

Our thoughts go out to all those affected by the tragic event.

 

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