Mum shares dreamy Thailand holiday snaps – days later her family get horror news
A well-loved mum-of-two was the picture of happiness as she shared gorgeous photos from her friends’ trip to Thailand. A matter of days later, she was dead.
Brooke Coates, from the Sunshine Coast, Australia, died suddenly and unexpectedly last week, with bereaved family members announcing her death on March 28. A cause of death has not yet been publicly shared, while loved ones are now working to bring her body home to say their final goodbyes.
Brooke’s death was announced on the same day that an enormous earthquake struck Thailand, Myanmar, and parts of China. Yesterday (March 31), Foreign Minister Catherine West confirmed that more than 3,000 people have died so far, with this figure expected to rise “significantly” in the days to come.
In the days leading up to her death, Brooke kept people updated on her holiday adventures, sharing footage taken inside her Ao Nang Beach resort room at Krabi, a scenic location close to Phuket and south of Bangkok, famed for its breathtaking beachside vistas.
Other snaps showed Brooke and her pals on the plane and at an airport in Thailand, with the group going on to try fun activities such as jet-skiing. Brooke also appeared in photographs believed to have been taken on the tranquil island of Koh Samui and the capital city of Bangkok. The trip appeared to be idyllic, but sadly, it ended in tragedy.
Brooke leaves behind a partner and two young children, aged just seven and three. Now, a fundraiser has been set up by one of Brooke’s family members “to bring her home and arrange for her funeral”. The fundraising page, which has so far raised more than $16,500 (AUD), reads: “Our hearts are broken as we navigate the unexpected loss of our beloved Brooke. […]
“We are reaching out for support to help cover the overwhelming costs of international travel, transportation, and many more expenses. Any contribution, big or small, will help ease the financial burden and allow us to focus on honouring Brooke’s memory.”
The page goes on to share how Brooke is “lovingly remembered by her children”, who are “the centre of everyone’s thoughts and support during this difficult time”. The message concluded: “We deeply appreciate your kindness, generosity, and prayers during this heartbreaking time.”
Elsewhere on social media, friends have shared their condolences. One person commented: “Oh my goodness, I’m so sorry to hear. How heartbreaking I can’t believe this, my heart goes out to all of you xxx.” Another posted: “I just don’t have words thinking of you all; you all had such a beautiful bond.”
You can donate to Brooke’s fundraiser for yourself here
Do you have a story to share? Email me at julia.banim@reachplc.com
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