Latest news with #Konnor
Daily Mirror
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Love Island star's healthy cousin, 28, dies suddenly from 'terrible' condition
Love Island star Konnor Ewudzi has revealed that his family "suffered terribly" due to Sickle cell - and even lead to the devastating loss of his cousin at just 28-years-old. Love Island contestant Konnor Ewudzi is raising awareness for World Sickle Cell Day (June 19) by sharing the devastating effect of the condition, effecting a large majority of his own family. Sickle cell is a genetic condition that affects the development of a person's red blood cells, where they develop into crescent shapes that can create blockages of blood vessels. These blockages of cells cause a lot of pain and even damage organs. Konnor, who starred in the 2024 season of Love Island, and now works as a barber in Cornwall, shared how he was lucky enough not to inherit the genetic condition that requires two parents who both have the gene. He explained: "I am on one of the lucky ones. My Mum Siobhan is mixed race, and she didn't carry the trait, which is why I am so fortunate," charting his "luck" to his mother's mixed heritage. However the rest of his family were not so lucky. Konnor shared how his father Godfrey, sister Billie-May, Auntie Freda, Uncle Richard and late Cousin Alexander "suffered terribly growing up, with hospital visits and blood transfusions required to help them with their pain" due to Sickle cell. Leaving a permanent effect on his family, the Love Islander opened up about the death of his cousin due to the condition. He said: "My cousin, Alexander was born with sickle cell. He died at just 28, out of the blue". Alexander's death was unexpected, occurring just after he graduated from Cambridge University as an architect. "He was not sick or suffering any long term illnesses – his organs just gave up one day. It is so sad that this can rob us of such beautiful lives at such young ages. Testing is so key. And blood giving even more so," Konnor said. In an effort to avoid further tragedy, Konnor's family now advocate for testing of Sickle Cell. "Seeing the way it has affected Freda, my Brother Richard and the sad loss of my late nephew, Alexander, is just heart-breaking. We just want to help more people avoid what we went through if possible," his dad, Godfrey, explained. The star's sister, Billie-May, a sufferer of Sickle Cell, added: "[Testing] is definitely something I have to think about when I meet a new partner. Like it is on my mind when I start dating someone new – I don't talk about it much but it is really important young people are aware of it". To raise awareness and encourage people to test for the debilitating disease, Konnor's family gathered in Abbey Wood's estate, East London, for a photoshoot to highlight the effects the condition has on real people and families. Abbey Wood is the location of where Netflix 's Supacell was filmed, with Konnor highlight how the hit series excellently raised awareness for the condition. He said: "The series did an amazing job of highlighting the condition to the public, but there is so much more people need to know". Help us improve our content by completing the survey below. We'd love to hear from you! Affecting over 18,000 people in the UK, Rachel Simpson, the communications officer and SEL lead mentor for Sickle Cell Society, urges anyone who is unsure of their genotype to get tested before planning a family planning, should they wish to. Rachel said: "What we really need more than anything is for people to give more blood. Blood transfusions are the main treatment process for people with the disorder, and many don't know that people with the trait can give blood. It's so important to donate if you can". Konnor also pointed out that 'one blood unit or donation which takes 20 mins can help up to three patients" and that he hopes, by sharing his story, the numbers of unit donations increase.
Scotsman
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
'Sickle cell isn't just on Supacell': Konnor Ewudzi and his family open up about their experience on World Sickle Cell Day
'My entire family has been affected by Sickle Cell' Konnor Ewudzi speaks openly while sitting on the steps of the Abbey Wood estate, which shot to fame as the setting for Rapman's Netflix blockbuster SUPACELL Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... 'The series did an amazing job of highlighting the condition to the public, but there is so much more people need to know.' Sickle Cell Disorder is a genetic condition which affects the red blood cells – where they develop into a crescent shape, this can cause blockages of the blood vessels leading to pain and potential organ damage. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad For someone to be born with Sickle Cell, two parents carrying the 'trait' have to come together. This is why testing is so important. Konnor's family are very close 'For me, I am on one of the lucky ones. My dad (Godfrey) carries the trait, so does my sister Billie-May. My mum Siobhan is mixed race, and she didn't carry the trait, which is why I am so fortunate. "But my auntie Freda, uncle Richard and late cousin Alexander, were not so lucky. They suffered terribly growing up, with hospital visits and blood transfusions required to help them with their pain and suffering.' The Rugby Presenter and Love Island star gently gathered family members on Monday, June 16 at the Abbey Wood estate to capture these special images, designed to show how big the impact of Sickle Cell can be on just one family. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'My cousin, Alexander was born with sickle cell. He died at just 28, out of the blue. He had just graduated from Cambridge University as an architect. He was not sick or suffering any long term illnesses – his organs just gave up one day. The Ewudzi's on the steps of the Netflix hit series SUPACELL which focuses on the condition "It is so sad that this can rob us of such beautiful lives at such young ages. Testing is so key. And blood giving even more so.' 'It is definitely something I have to think about when I meet a new partner,' Konnor's sister Billie-May said. 'Like it is on my mind when I start dating someone new – I don't talk about it much but it is really important young people are aware of it." 'Seeing the way it has affected Freda, my brother Richard and the sad loss of my late nephew, Alexander, is just heartbreaking. We just want to help more people avoid what we went through if possible,' said Godfrey. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'We had Billie-May and Konnor tested when they were really little. It was a nerve-racking time, but it had to be done. We are the lucky ones," agreed Siobhan, Konnor's mum. Konnor and his family headed to the Abbey Wood Estate where SUPACELL was filmed The national campaign for awareness this year is called 'TELL IT LOUD' – asking all those with Sickle Cell or the trait to share their experiences and help educate the nation on this largely misunderstood condition. 'This affects over eighteen thousand people in the UK – we urge those who may not know their genotype to get tested before family planning.' Rachel Simpson, Communications Officer & SEL Lead Mentor for Sickle Cell Society said. 'What we really need more than anything is for people to give more blood. Blood transfusions are the main treatment process for people with the disorder, and many don't know that people with the trait can give blood. It's so important to donate if you can.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Konnor continued: 'One blood unit or donation which takes 20 mins can help up to three patients – so it really is an incredibly easy way to help Sickle Cell sufferers. There are blood donation centres all over the UK so we are hoping the numbers go up after sharing our personal stories.' Love Island's Konnor Ewudzi and family have shared their personal stories on Sickle Cell Disorder John James OBE, Chief Executive of the Sickle Cell Society said: 'Sickle cell disorder is the UK's fastest growing genetic condition, but people living with it still face too much silence and too little support. That's why we're asking people to 'Tell It Loud' this World Sickle Cell Day — by sharing their story, giving blood, and getting MPs to support better employment rights for people living with the condition. We're so grateful to Konnor for sharing his story and helping us shine a light on sickle cell and the urgent need for more action, more awareness and more black heritage blood donors.'
Scottish Sun
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Love Island hunk opens up on devastating family tragedy that saw fit and healthy cousin die ‘out of the blue'
The star reflected on the sad loss of his cousin at a young age tragic loss Love Island hunk opens up on devastating family tragedy that saw fit and healthy cousin die 'out of the blue' Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A LOVE Island hunk has revealed a devastating family tragedy which saw his fit and healthy cousin die 'out of the blue'. Konnor Ewudzi, 29, entered ITV2 dating show last year - but he failed to find a meaningful connection. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 5 Love Island hunk Konnor Ewudzi opened up about a devastating family loss Credit: @ninety6ix _ Sickle Cell Society 5 Konnor's family has been affected by sickle cell disease Credit: @ninety6ix _ Sickle Cell Society 5 The star's family tragically lost a relative at a young age Credit: @ninety6ix _ Sickle Cell Society Konnor revealed how his "whole family impacted by sickle cell disorder - sickle cell." This is a genetic condition affecting the red blood cells. He shared: 'My cousin, Alexander was born with sickle cell. He died at just 28, out of the blue. "He had just graduated from Cambridge University as an architect. "He was not sick or suffering any long term illnesses – his organs just gave up one day. "It is so sad that this can rob us of such beautiful lives at such young ages. "Testing is so key. And blood giving even more so.' People born with sickle cell have two parents carrying the "trait" - hence why such importance is placed on testing. The cells develop into a crescent shape and can cause blockages of the blood vessels. In turn, this can lead to pain and potential organ damage. Love Island fans spot secret feud between two boys after 'snakey move' Konnor added: 'For me, I am on one of the lucky ones. My Dad (Godfrey) carries the trait, so does my Sister Billie-May. "My Mum Siobhan is mixed race, and she didn't carry the trait, which is why I am so fortunate. "But my Auntie Freda, Uncle Richard and late Cousin Alexander, were not so lucky. "They suffered terribly growing up, with hospital visits and blood transfusions required to help them with their pain and suffering.' His dad, Godfrey, added: 'Seeing the way it has affected Freda, my Brother Richard and the sad loss of my late nephew, Alexander, is just heartbreaking. We just want to help more people avoid what we went through if possible.' Konnor assembled his close family for a photo shoot at Abbey Wood estate - a filming location for superhero drama Supacell. The Netflix programme follows a group of five ordinary black people - united by a family history of sickle cell disease. Regarding the show, Konnor said: "The series did an amazing job of highlighting the condition to the public, but there is so much more people need to know." He continued 'One blood unit or donation which takes 20 mins can help up to three patients – so it really is an incredibly easy way to help sickle cell sufferers. "There are blood donation centres all over the UK so we are hoping the numbers go up after sharing our personal stories.' WHAT IS SICKLE CELL DISEASE? SICKLE cell disease is a genetic condition that prevents red blood cells from developing properly. The cells can become abnormally shaped and die quicker than healthy blood cells, raising the risk of clots or blood vessel blockages. Most people live normal lives with the condition but it can trigger flare-ups called sickle cell crises, when symptoms become painful and may lead to complications. Signs include: Dizziness Pain Tiredness and weakness Headaches Shortness of breath Patients with sickle cell disorders are also at higher risk of infections, anaemia (low blood iron), gallstones, stroke, high blood pressure and kidney problems. There is no definitive cure for sickle cell disease and many patients require treatment throughout their lives. An estimated 15,000 people in England have it and it is more common in black people. John James OBE, Chief Executive of the Sickle Cell Society said: 'Sickle cell disorder is the UK's fastest growing genetic condition, but people living with it still face too much silence and too little support. "That's why we're asking people to 'Tell It Loud' this World Sickle Cell Day — by sharing their story, giving blood, and getting MPs to support better employment rights for people living with the condition. "We're so grateful to Konnor for sharing his story and helping us shine a light on sickle cell and the urgent need for more action, more awareness and more black heritage blood donors.' For more information on Sickle Cell, head to 5 Konnor starred in last year's Love Island Credit: Rex
The Irish Sun
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Love Island hunk opens up on devastating family tragedy that saw fit and healthy cousin die ‘out of the blue'
A LOVE Island hunk has revealed a devastating family tragedy which saw his fit and healthy cousin die 'out of the blue'. Konnor Ewudzi, 29, entered ITV2 dating show 5 Love Island hunk Konnor Ewudzi opened up about a devastating family loss Credit: @ninety6ix _ Sickle Cell Society 5 Konnor's family has been affected by sickle cell disease Credit: @ninety6ix _ Sickle Cell Society 5 The star's family tragically lost a relative at a young age Credit: @ninety6ix _ Sickle Cell Society Konnor revealed how his "whole family This is a genetic condition affecting the red blood cells. He shared: 'My cousin, Alexander was born with sickle cell. He died at just 28, out of the blue. "He had just graduated from Cambridge University as an architect. Read more on Love Island "He was not sick or suffering any long term illnesses – his organs just gave up one day. "It is so sad that this can rob us of such beautiful lives at such young ages. "Testing is so key. And blood giving even more so.' People born with sickle cell have two parents carrying the "trait" - hence why such importance is placed on testing. Most read in Love Island The cells develop into a crescent shape and can cause blockages of the blood vessels. In turn, this can lead to pain and potential organ damage. Love Island fans spot secret feud between two boys after 'snakey move' Konnor added: 'For me, I am on one of the lucky ones. My Dad (Godfrey) carries the trait, so does my Sister Billie-May. "My Mum Siobhan is mixed race , and she didn't carry the trait, which is why I am so fortunate. "But my Auntie Freda, Uncle Richard and late Cousin Alexander, were not so lucky. "They suffered terribly growing up, with hospital visits and blood transfusions required to help them with their pain and suffering.' His dad, Godfrey, added: 'Seeing the way it has affected Freda, my Brother Richard and the sad loss of my late nephew, Alexander, is just heartbreaking. We just want to help more people avoid what we went through if possible.' Konnor assembled his close family for a photo shoot at Abbey Wood estate - a filming location for superhero drama Supacell. The Netflix programme follows a group of five ordinary black people - united by a family history of sickle cell disease. Regarding the show, Konnor said: "The series did an amazing job of highlighting the condition to the public, but there is so much more people need to know." He continued 'One blood unit or donation which takes 20 mins can help up to three patients – so it really is an incredibly easy way to help sickle cell sufferers. "There are blood donation centres all over the UK so we are hoping the numbers go up after sharing our personal stories.' WHAT IS SICKLE CELL DISEASE? SICKLE cell disease is a genetic condition that prevents red blood cells from developing properly. The cells can become abnormally shaped and die quicker than healthy blood cells, raising the risk of clots or blood vessel blockages. Most people live normal lives with the condition but it can trigger flare-ups called sickle cell crises, when symptoms become painful and may lead to complications. Signs include: Dizziness Pain Tiredness and weakness Headaches Shortness of breath Patients with sickle cell disorders are also at higher risk of infections, anaemia (low blood iron), gallstones, stroke, high blood pressure and kidney problems. There is no definitive cure for sickle cell disease and many patients require treatment throughout their lives. An estimated 15,000 people in England have it and it is more common in black people. John James OBE, Chief Executive of the Sickle Cell Society said: 'Sickle cell disorder is the UK's fastest growing genetic condition, but people living with it still face too much silence and too little support. "That's why we're asking people to 'Tell It Loud' this World Sickle Cell Day — by sharing their story, giving blood, and getting MPs to support better employment rights for people living with the condition. "We're so grateful to Konnor for sharing his story and helping us shine a light on sickle cell and the urgent need for more action, more awareness and more black heritage blood donors.' For more information on Sickle Cell, head to 5 Konnor starred in last year's Love Island Credit: Rex 5 He entered as a bombshell but was later dumped from the villa Credit: Rex
Scottish Sun
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
New Love Islanders are like clone dolls – bosses have an obvious recipe but there's no one like me, says villa hunk
Two villa beauties have already caught his eye THE KON & ONLY New Love Islanders are like clone dolls – bosses have an obvious recipe but there's no one like me, says villa hunk LOVE Island's new look line-up has been likened to 'clones' and 'dolls off a shelf' by a former villa bombshell. Hunky rugby player Konnor Ewudzi, 29, had girls swooning when he entered the villa last summer, but failed to find a meaningful connection. Advertisement 4 This year's Islanders have drawn comparisons with past stars Credit: Shutterstock Editorial 4 Konnor Ewudzi starred in the villa last summer Credit: Rex He admits two beauties have already caught his eye this time around - though he'd welcome some more variety. "I do think each year it's like a bit of a structure they seem to do," he told The Sun. "It's a bit like dolls coming off the shelf, you know? Each year it's quite similar. It's like they have a recipe. "I'm just waiting for the Konnor clone to come in, the Konnor doll with pineapple hair." While there's no one physically resembling him just yet, another rugby-playing Connor - this time with a C - has been added to the line-up at the last minute. Advertisement The similarities with past series' contestants isn't deterring him from tuning in though, and he'll be watching with interest come launch night on Monday. "I've always watched Love Island," he says. "You could call it a guilty pleasure. I will be watching it again. "So far from what I've seen, there's a couple of good-looking girls in there. "Shakira, she's a good-looking girl. She seems quite bubbly, and Megan, she's a good-looking girl. I think people are going to take to her and like her too." Advertisement Have YOU got a story or an amazing picture or video? Email exclusive@ and you could even get PAID Since leaving the villa, Cornwall based Konnor has been working as a rugby pundit covering the Gallagher Premiership. Even though he sometimes craves stepping out onto the pitch, getting up close to rugby union's biggest names is a close second best. Love Island 2025: Top villa snog spots And he's taken to the role in front of camera effortlessly, telling us: "I think because I've come from a rugby background, I feel I've slotted in quite nicely. Advertisement "I've come out (the villa) and then I've fallen into something that just makes sense to me, like I say, because I've got the rugby background. Presenting is something that I've always thought I could do." Konnor's had little time to think about his love life with his busy work schedule, even though he hasn't been short of offers. "The DMs have been a bit mad," he said. "Maybe it's slowed down a little bit now. "But, yeah, I'm just trying to just stay focused, stick to what I'm doing. Not dating anyone. I'm still single. Advertisement "If the right one comes along, she comes along. We're not forcing anything." It's not just girls who have been giving him attention, the boyfriends of Love Island fans often stop him for selfies. 4 He rugby player now covers the Gallagher Premiership 4 Konnor fancies putting his body to the test on Celeb SAS Credit: konnorewudzi Advertisement He said: "I've had loads of guys come up to me as well, which I think is hilarious. 'Oh, Kon, Kon, can I have a photo with you?' And I just think it's great because it's not just girls that watch it. "Guys do secretly like it as well, sitting down with their girlfriends watching it and you get kind of reeled into it each night at nine o'clock." He's already looking ahead to the next rugby season when it kicks off in the autumnbut hasn't ruled out a return to reality TV. "I've done a dating show now and I'd say it's probably the biggest dating show going," he says. "I'd like to do something a bit more active. Advertisement "So, SAS, Who Dares Wins? And the more physical challenging sort of shows just for something a bit different from what I've already done."
