Tragic Loss of Cardiff Teenager After Sudden Brain Haemorrhage
A vibrant schoolgirl from Cardiff, described as being full of life and possessing a profound passion for horses, has tragically died after collapsing from an unexpected and fatal brain bleed. Lili Howells, a bright student at Radyr Comprehensive School, passed away on Friday, January 30, following a devastating medical crisis that began just minutes after she was laughing and joking in her bedroom.
Sudden Collapse After a Day with Her Beloved Horse
On the afternoon of Monday, January 26, Lili had been actively engaged with her equestrian interests, spending time with her horse Robin and helping out at local stables. She even texted a family friend and fellow equestrian, Leah Wilson, providing updates about their horses after looking after them. Merely hours later, the teenager collapsed at her home in Fairwater, Cardiff, in a sudden and shocking turn of events.
Lili was rushed to hospital where doctors discovered the critical brain bleed, leading to urgent surgery. Her mother, Mel, contacted Ms. Wilson after Lili was admitted, conveying that the situation was not looking good. Ms. Wilson recounted her disbelief, stating, I texted her back to ask if she meant to say Lili because I couldn't believe it. I had only just spoken to her.
Heartbreaking Medical Complications and Final Goodbyes
Although Lili initially made it through the first surgery, her condition deteriorated rapidly. On Tuesday, January 27, her friends and family were invited to say their final goodbyes as she faced another severe brain bleed that night. During a subsequent surgery, medical professionals declared that Lili had suffered brain stem death, marking a tragic conclusion to the brief battle.
In a gesture of profound generosity amidst their grief, Lili's parents, Mel and Jay, made the courageous decision to donate her organs. She passed away peacefully on Friday, January 30, leaving behind a heartbroken community. Lili is lovingly remembered as the daughter of Mel and Jay, sister to younger brother Ronnie and big sister Rochelle, auntie to nephew Jenson, and girlfriend to Hashim.
A Community United in Mourning and Support
Leah Wilson has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to assist the family with funeral expenses and to honour Lili's deep affection for horses. The fundraiser aims to provide a horse and cart for her final journey, reflecting her lifelong equestrian passion. Ms. Wilson emphasised, We would really love to help the family with funeral costs and to honour Lili's love for horses by providing a horse and cart for her final journey.
Describing Lili's character, Ms. Wilson added, Lili was full of life, she was so young and so funny. She had a massive passion for horses - her horse Robin was her world. The teenager's sudden passing has deeply affected all who knew her, with Ms. Wilson noting, Lili was loved deeply by everyone around her and her family was heartbroken by this devastating loss.
This tragic incident highlights the unpredictable nature of such medical emergencies and the enduring impact of a young life cut short, celebrated for its joy, humour, and unwavering dedication to equestrian pursuits.
