“Harry’s passion was to make a difference to people’s lives”

Monday 25 February 2019

Hundreds of tributes have flooded in for a personal trainer, whose sudden brain haemorrhages inspired him to help others through stroke and cancer recovery, after he passed away at the weekend.

Pride of Britain finalist Harry Zambon (25) died “peacefully and suddenly in his mother’s arms” on Saturday morning, according to his father.

Mr Zambon suffered two brain haemorrhages and a stroke three-and-a-half years ago, but refused to let his eventual diagnosis of a rare and aggressive cancer get the better of him. 

Following emergency surgery, doctors said there was a chance he might be paralysed - but Mr Zambon defied the odds by walking again.

Just months later, he even returned to his job, announcing that he would be offering those going through serious illness personal training for free.

But the exercise aficionado, who has been described by others as “courageous” and “inspirational”, didn’t end his philanthropic work there.

He went on to raise more than £12,000 for the Jersey Brain Tumour Charity ahead of appearing as a Native American at the Battle of Flowers, as well as supporting an orphanage in Zimbabwe, where he supported children with school fees and sent sporting equipment. Including other work for cancer, schooling, wildlife and stroke charities, he generated in excess of £17,000.

In late 2018, he also spent time volunteering at Jersey Zoo.

Mr Zambon’s tireless efforts saw him become as a finalist in last year’s Pride of Britain Awards.

It wasn’t just his charity work that earned him recognition, however.

The young entrepreneur wanted to show others that academic qualifications weren’t the only route to success, having set up his successful personal training business, Zambon Fitness, aged just 20. He was known for bringing humour into his work, and inspiring others with ‘Mr Motivator’ outfits. 

Later, he launched a brand of clothing called ‘Genesis’, ranging from stringer vests to snapbacks, which he said was inspired by his personal journey.

In an interview with Connect magazine, he advised young people not to be afraid to pursue what they love and not to fear bumps in the road towards their dreams.

“Your priority should always be to be happy. That’s success… But remember that it’s the most non-linear thing in the world. It’s one hell of a windy road.”

That spirit was celebrated by Mr Zambon’s inspiration, Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson, who wrote him a supportive letter before the pair eventually met in late 2015. 

Mr Zambon’s father, Tom, announced his death on Saturday.

“I’m afraid that I can hardly find the words to bring you the sad news that Harry passed away this morning.

"He died peacefully and suddenly at home in his mother’s arms and we are so grateful that he didn’t suffer," he wrote on Facebook.

Tom Zambon spoke of how his son dealt with his illness with “style and determination”, adding that the he “never gave up on trying to overcome the odd and defied his doctors to the very end”.

He continued: “Harry’s passion was to make a difference to people’s lives and this he achieved to so many of his clients, friends and family as well as countless others through his charity work.

“During his twenty five years on this earth he achieved more than many do during a full life time.

“To say we will miss him does not do justice to the overwhelming love we feel for him. Nobody knows why people are taken so young but Harry has a real purpose in life and fulfilled it to the maximum.”

Hundreds of tributes from friends, clients, politicians, former teachers and schoolmates, and inspired islanders have since flooded in.

After today’s sad news of the loss of Harry Zambon my words at this time pic.twitter.com/o1lipRsobi

— Deputy Kevin Pamplin (@KevinPamplin) February 23, 2019

One of Mr Zambon's former clients described his passing as "the saddest news".

"Harry was my personal trainer and we became friends.. he was such fun and so easy to talk to.. wise beyond his years but cheeky with it... he trained my husband and helped him to run two marathons and raise money for MS society. He was a son and brother to be proud of," she wrote.

A former Victoria College student added: "Real gent and a genuine nice bloke. Harry dealt with adversity in the most honorable way. Rest in peace Harry Olim Hoc Collegium."

Drama teacher Emma O'Prey, commented: "I taught Harry at Vic, and have been incredibly inspired and impressed by his exceptional attitude to life and work. He was a hero and he had more of an impact than most do in a much longer life."

Former St. Helier Deputy, Jackie Hilton, described Mr Zambon as a "brave and inspirational young man", while St. Saviour Deputy Kevin Pamplin, who previously worked at the Jersey Brain Tumour Charity, said: "I'm still yet to find the words but was so proud to know him and his legacy will carry on."