Ryan's Funeral & Support For His Family

We’re reaching out with broken hearts to ask for your support for Joanne O’Connor (nee Collins), whose beloved husband, Ryan O’Connor, a much-loved and well-known member of the Rossendale community, passed away after falling ill and then suffering a cardiac arrest whilst attending a Thai Boxing Academy in Thailand. Medics were able to restart his heart, and he was put on life support but sadly died the following day.

Joanne, who is a Maths Teacher, is currently pregnant with their second child, due to give birth in just a few days. She now faces the unimaginable pain of preparing to bring new life into the world whilst coping with the uncertainty of their future and the devastating knowledge that their new daughter will never meet her father. Riley, the first child who is nearly 3, will not see her father again.

We are raising this money to help Joanne and her family manage the unknown costs ahead, including support for her two young children, keeping their roof over their head’s, medical expenses, possible repatriation for Ryan and other costs associated with raising two young children alone, one of whom is due to arrive any day now.

If you knew Ryan, you would know he was a great dad and husband. His strength, humour, and warmth have touched so many people. Now it's our turn to rally around him and his family during their darkest hour.

Please consider donating whatever you can and share this page widely. Every donation, no matter how small, would make a huge difference.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.