Reiss Halliday Memorial

We have organised this fundraising page in memory of Reiss Halliday, who passed away last week at the age of 22, surrounded by his loving family.

 

Many people from far and wide have reached out to ask if they can make a donation or support the family in a practical way since hearing the heartbreaking news, so a few friends of the family got together and felt that this was the best way to immediately support them. Any funds raised here will go directly to Reiss’ family to assist with funeral costs and as a donation towards the funding of a local and amazing service called ‘GO2’ Young Adult Centre in Glasgow.

 

Reiss was an exceptionally special boy who was surrounded by fun, love and care throughout his life. He was a character who brought joy, light and inspiration to everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him.

 

Before Reiss was born, his Mum and Dad were given the devastating news that he was unlikely to survive birth or perhaps only  live for a few minutes outside of the womb due to multiple and significant health conditions that had been identified. Those harrowing hours turned into more hopeful days, weeks, months and then years. 22 years of Reiss. So many special memories. This boy defied every medic who said he couldn’t. He did. He was a fighter and he had the best family who cherished him so much. If love could have saved Reiss, he would have lived forever.

 

Reiss went through so much physical pain in his short life, living with severe brittle bones and Cri du Chat Syndrome, amongst many other serious conditions and complications. However, despite his challenges, Reiss was very rarely seen without a huge smile on his face. His favourite thing in the whole world was his slinky - his laugh when he saw it was infectious. Who thought a slinky could bring so much joy…perhaps we all need a slinky! Perhaps we all need to ‘be more Reiss’.

 

There were many challenging years and obstacles for Reiss and his family to ensure he received the best care possible. As a child and then young adult with both multiple and complex special needs requiring round the clock care, his Mum and Dad are incredibly grateful for the support that they received from family, friends, neighbours, the community, care workers, strangers, medical experts and so many charities and service providers. There is one local service provider, however, that had a special place in Reiss’ heart - he especially loved the local team and volunteers at GO2 who became like family to him. GO2 Young Adult Centre is an incredible service which provides activities and day care for young adults with special needs. The genuine dedication, love and care that they showed towards Reiss over many years has brought much comfort to the family.

 

As you can imagine, this is a heartbreaking time for Reiss’ family who are trying to come to terms with their precious and sudden loss.

 

We know that many people will have happy memories of Reiss. Please feel free to share them here or leave a message of support. We know how much words of comfort mean to the family.

 

Fly high with the brightest stars and smile among the angels, Reiss. You were such a beautiful soul who will be cherished in so many hearts forever and ever.

 

Thank you.

xxx