a day ago
Family's plea to bring son's body home after tragic holiday death in France
Liam Wardle, from Pilling, Lancashire, was on a return trip abroad with family and friends when he fell critically ill
The grief-stricken family of a young man from Lancashire who died unexpectedly during a French holiday have launched a fundraising campaign to bring his body home. Liam Wardle, from Pilling, had battled cerebral palsy from birth and was known for being "always happy, smiley, and never letting life get him down".
He had faced numerous medical consultations and surgical procedures, yet stayed a symbol of strength, possessing what mates described as "a smile that could light the room". Devastatingly, whilst on what should have been a cheerful overseas trip with relatives and companions, Liam became seriously unwell.
Medical professionals found he was battling undetected, long-term kidney failure. Despite the best efforts of healthcare workers, he died in the arms of his mum and dad, Mark and Antonia, during the early morning of August 19.
Since the illness was already present, it wasn't included in the household's travel cover, leaving them confronting enormous expenses to bring his remains back and fund burial costs.
The household is currently raising money via GoFundMe to assist with medical bills, the expense of transporting Liam back, and providing him with "the send-off he deserves".
The appeal, titled "Please help us get our little boy home", has already raised £12,151 of its £22,000 target.
The family's message on the page reads: 'Everything was as perfect as could be for Liam until he fell unexpectedly poorly.
"His kidneys were in fact failing him, a health condition that had been undiagnosed.
"Heartbreakingly Liam gained his angel wings and passed in the loving arms of his mother and father.
"He fought so so hard but could fight no more.'
It continues: 'Please help bring him home to his family.
"Please allow us to give him the send-off he deserves… we will need to raise upwards of £10,000 to cover the financial cost and allow the family time to grieve.'
Friends and supporters have been urged to donate or share the appeal, with one message summing up the mood: 'Heaven truly has gained an angel.'
The fundraiser can be found on GoFundMe under 'Please help us get our little boy home'.
