Riley Welsh - Forever 13

In Loving Memory of Riley – Forever 13

With Leigh’s blessing, we—her close friends—are organising this fundraiser on her behalf as she navigates the unimaginable grief of losing her beautiful boy, Riley. This is our way of standing beside her and offering our support, allowing her to focus on honouring Riley’s memory and giving him the most beautiful farewell.

On the 29th of April 2025, the world lost a truly special boy. Riley took his last breath in his mummy’s arms, wrapped in love and peace. He was just 13 years old.

Born with complex disabilities, Riley faced a mountain of medical challenges from the very beginning – blindness, hearing loss, severe epilepsy, a colostomy, and a feeding tube – yet he never stopped smiling. Known lovingly as "Smiley Riley," he brought light and laughter to everyone lucky enough to know him.

Riley taught us all about courage, strength, and unconditional love. Despite being in hospital nearly every month and enduring more than any child should, he remained full of joy. He adored cuddles with his mum, was happiest snuggled in her arms, and was never far from his beloved soft toys. His final days were spent in peace and surrounded by love – just as he deserved.

Leigh, Riley’s devoted mum, gave him everything: her time, her energy, and most of all, her endless love. She was his safe place through every hospital stay, every treatment, and every sleepless night. Now, we want to help give Riley the send-off he so deeply deserves – full of sunflowers, light, and all the love he shared with the world.

We are asking for support to help cover the costs of Riley’s funeral and celebration of life. Every penny raised will go directly to giving this brave boy the most beautiful goodbye.

If you can help in any way – by donating or simply sharing – it would mean the world to Leigh and everyone who loves Riley.

Thank you for helping us honour his memory.

Forever 13, our beautiful sunflower.