Our brother, Tolly, had eczema and asthma from a very young age. While other children spent their summer holidays playing with toys and enjoying the sun, Tolly spent weeks at a time at Penn Children's Hospital. Treated with potassium permanganate and coal tar cream, ointment and lotions, he was often covered with bandages from the neck downwards. Despite these challenges, Tolly was a playful, mischievous, and cheeky character, the baby of our family.

As a child Tolly faced bullying and received negative comments about his flaky skin and hair, from people of all ages - conditions he had little control over. This adversity only made him more resilient and tough. With the help of our (late) beloved mother and his elder sisters, Tolly managed his skincare routine and still lived life to the fullest, achieving numerous milestones.

Tragically, Tolly, unexpectedly passed away at the age of 48 on 19/07/2024 whilst on holiday in Spain, celebrating his cousin's 50th birthday with their lifelong friends. His passing has left a massive void in everyone's life, especially for his wife, Sema, and his 15-year-old daughter, Zara. His siblings, cousins, wider family, and friends are devastated. He was the apple of our late parents' eye, with Mum doting on him. Tolly was supportive to many and someone you could count on in times of need. If he couldn't help directly, he knew someone who could. He took a vested interest in all his nieces and nephews, their education, sports activities, and career development.

One of Tolly's greatest joys was buying gifts for his wife and daughter, respectively. Regardless of his tough appearance, he was a big softie at heart and loved spoiling children within our family and friends circle with gifts on special occasions, at Christmas, and on their birthdays. He had an affinity with children, especially those who spent lengthy stays in hospital. Tolly always had time to talk to children and loved discussing Marvel characters and their special powers. He was an avid cyclist, participating in many challenges to support the B.J. Charity Bike Rides in Wolverhampton, cycling alongside his brothers, cousins, and a supportive group of friends.

In 2003, Tolly adopted a healthier lifestyle by quitting alcohol. Since then, he regularly attended the gym, waking up at 5am to exercise. He absolutely loved food and had a sweet tooth. Tolly had a successful career, working for various financial institutions after graduating with a degree in Business Law.

Tolly showed great courage in the face of adversity. He demonstrated immense loyalty to his family and friends and stood for unity. Despite his short stature, he often stood his ground and stepped up to his responsibilities where others might shy away. He was at the centre of every family celebration, often organising food and drinks for the after parties too! Diwali was a spectacular event as he would organise a fireworks display for all ages. Christmas was also a time when Tolly ensured the family had a great time.

Over the years, Tolly received support from his GP, Penn Children's Hospital, and New Cross Hospital, which has provided care not only to Tolly but also to many of our family members. Sadly, many of them are no longer with us. Tolly also had an allergy to flowers, so instead of floral tributes, we are requesting donations to buy toys and other items as advised by Community & Events Fundraising Team at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton, specifically for the children's wards. This will support children with various lifelong conditions who are hospitalised and away from their families and loved ones. Tolly's wife, Sema, and daughter, Zara, will choose various items for all ages and genders, ensuring they bring joy and comfort to these children, just as Tolly did throughout his life.

By carrying on this legacy in Tolly's memory, these donations will bring joy to many children and their families, alleviating, even if momentarily, the sadness, loneliness, and boredom of being in the hospital due to illness. Toys, games, and books will provide fun and distraction during their challenging times.

We will all miss Tolly's smile, laughter, jokes, and his larger-than-life character.

Your contribution will help continue Tolly's legacy of kindness and generosity, making a positive impact on the lives of many children.

Thank you for your support.

Best regards

Sheila