Cardigan RFC has paid a heartfelt tribute to 14-year-old Louis Cramp, a young rugby player who died after a battle with osteosarcoma, the most common form of primary bone cancer. The club said his 'love for the game touched so many' and that he 'will never be forgotten.'
Louis' Journey with Cancer
Louis had been part of Cardigan RFC since the age of seven. His cancer journey began after a trampoline accident in October 2024, when doctors discovered a lesion on his femur. He underwent months of chemotherapy and major surgery, including receiving a leg implant on New Year's Eve 2024. Despite signs of hope, further tumours were later discovered in his arm and chest.
Club's Tribute
In a statement on Sunday, the club said: 'It is with great sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Louis Hess Cramp this morning. Louis became part of the Cardigan RFC family at the age of just 7 and will always hold a special place in our club. His warmth, commitment, and love for the game touched so many, and his loss will be deeply felt by everyone who knew him.'
The club offered condolences to Louis's family, friends, teammates, and coaches, adding: 'As a club, we are here to support one another. If you are struggling or would simply like someone to talk to, please don't hesitate to reach out. We are one club, one family, and we will get through this together. Rest in peace, Louis. You will never be forgotten.'
Community Support
The community rallied around Louis' family after his diagnosis. His young teammates shaved their heads in solidarity before he started chemotherapy. Earlier this year, a fundraising campaign raised over £20,000 to enable the family to visit Australia, where Louis was born before moving to west Wales.
Louis' mum Sherrelle told WalesOnline: 'I can’t explain what this all means to me and our family. We’re going to the Scarlets game on Friday with a bus full of people from Cardigan RFC. He’ll get to meet the players and some of his mates are coming up for the game too. He’s rugby mad. What the rugby club have done, along with his cancer care team, the charity Latch, and Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital, is just insane.'
She added: 'It’s hard not to be overwhelmed by people’s kindness. It just means that we’re able to be with him, to try and make his life as great as possible and to let him have as much fun as he can. Louis doesn’t want us to be sad. I have had the privilege of having him in my life, so how can I be sad?'
