On Friday 10th April 2026, my beautiful friends Nilay and Cenk experienced the kind of heartbreak no parent should ever have to face. Their precious 13-year-old son, Jacob, sadly passed away.

Jacob had lived with epilepsy and seizures since he was just 2 years old. In recent years, they had become rare and mostly only happened in his sleep. He was even due for his 6-month specialist check-up today.

There are no words for the pain of losing a child. No parent should ever have to outlive their own child.

Jacob was an amazing big brother to Cengiz (7) and Almira (5), who have now lost their role model and their idol. He was a typical young boy who loved gaming, had a close group of friends, and was so excited for what was ahead. He was about to get braces and couldn’t wait to get his first job when he turned 14 in just a few months. His life was only just beginning.

Just one month ago, the family moved into a new home in Helensvale, finally settling into a bigger space where the kids could enjoy having room to play and a pool together.

Nilay is self-employed, and Cenk was about to start a new job this week after completing his forklift licence. But right now, work is the last thing on their minds. They are facing the unimaginable, while still trying to be strong for their two young children.

My heart is completely broken for them.

I’ve created this fundraiser to help ease even a small part of the pressure they are under. The goal is to help cover funeral costs, rent, bills, and basic living expenses so they can focus on grieving and being there for each other during this incredibly difficult time.

Nilay’s birthday is this Thursday, and instead of celebrating, they are preparing to say goodbye to their beautiful boy. They are hoping to hold his funeral this week at their local mosque, the Islamic Society of Gold Coast in Arundel, to give Jacob a traditional farewell.

This family is one of the most kind, generous and caring families I know. If I could take this pain away from them, I would. The least we can do is come together and support them in any way we can.

If you are able to contribute, no matter how small, it would mean more than words can say.

Thank you everyone