Thousands raised after family's heartbreaking appeal to bring son home

Thursday, 21 August 2025 08:55

By Greg Lambert @greglam72

Liam had "the most amazing smile that could light the room". Photos from the Gofundme page set up in his memory

An appeal launched after a much-loved teenager died while on holiday has raised thousands to help bring him home.

More than £14,000 has been raised so far to help the family of Liam Benn-Wardle who passed away on Tuesday.

Liam, who had cerebral palsy and attended the Loyne Specialist School in Lancaster, fell ill unexpectedly while on holiday with his family and friends in France.

A fundraising page quickly achieved its target figure as hundreds of people donated in Liam's memory.

The page, set up by Ashlynn Brennan, said: "Liam was on a fun holiday staying with his family and friends in France.

"He absolutely loved his last trip here and his family wanted him to experience it for another year.

"Liam was born with cerebral palsy but it never stopped him, he was always happy, smiley and never let life get him down.

"He experienced countless years of hospital appointments, operations...but one thing you could never miss is his beautiful big smile.

"If you ask anyone about Liam they would all say he has the most amazing smile that could light the room.

"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.

"It would appear by the hospital scan that it was in fact something that had been historic and not a spur of the moment illness, meaning it would not be covered under any insurance.

"Liam was rushed to the hospital at 3pm where doctors fought with his infection and failing kidneys his body was shutting down.

"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!!

"The hospital tried so hard. He later passed at 2.37am on August 19.

"He will be profoundly missed from all who knew him.

"This is why I am here now asking you, his friends, family and anyone who could help big or small. Please help bring him home to his family.

"Please allow us to give him the send off he deserves, in saying this the financial strain is going to be a big strain on the family who are suffering dearly enough, please allow us to make this lighter.

"We will need to raise as a community and family upwards of £10,000 to cover the financial cost.

"This will cover the hospital bills, flying Liam home and whatever else he may need to make this journey!

"I appreciate you taking the time to read his story, any donation big or small please support the family at a time of need.

"We understand not everyone will be in the position to spare money, please spare the time and share this post! We really appreciate you all wholeheartedly.

"Heaven truly has gained an angel."

After the page passed the £10,000 target mark, a post from Liam's parents Antonia and Mark, and family, said: "To all that has shared and reposted and donated we will forever be grateful, and the generosity for our son for what he has received is impacting us not only for the kindness and support but all of the generous people that don't even know Liam or our family.

"Thank you, we have met (the) target to get Liam home."

There were several tributes paid to Liam online, including from Alcedo Care Lancaster & Wyre.

"Our hearts are heavy with the devastating news of the unexpected passing of one of our young clients, Liam.

"Liam brought so much joy to our Lancaster team, and he will be deeply missed. We are sending our most sincere condolences to his family and friends.

"Everyone at Alcedo Care shares in this grief and will always remember Liam."

The fundraising page is HERE.