Manchester Family Plans Disneyland Trip After Mother's Death

A Manchester family is coping with the sudden loss of 33-year-old Rachael Hewerdine, who died in a hospital on September 29 after suffering a stroke. Her parents, Michelle and Brian, have taken responsibility for raising her nine-year-old daughter, Bonnie, and are organizing a fundraising appeal to take the child to Disneyland Paris.

The family hopes the planned trip will give Bonnie a positive experience as she adjusts to life without her mother. Michelle has asked supporters to donate to the appeal instead of sending flowers in Rachael's memory, explaining that the money will help create a special experience for her granddaughter.

Rachael's friend Katie expressed shock at her death and highlighted the financial challenges facing the family, including funeral expenses and the responsibility of raising a grandchild.

"I am so, so shocked and saddened to hear of the sad passing of such a beautiful soul at age 33 to a stroke. Rachael leaves behind a nine-year-old little girl, a baby now without her mum. As we all know, funerals are expensive, as will be raising a grandchild for her parents.

Rest peacefully, beautiful, kind girl." Katie said.

Katie also paid tribute to Rachael's kindness, sentiments shared by others mourning her unexpected death. The family is now focused on supporting Bonnie as they navigate their loss.

Michelle described the close relationship her daughter shared with Bonnie, emphasizing how central they were to each other's lives.

"It is such a sad and shocking event that has left us all shocked and shaken, losing our precious daughter and Bonnie losing her mom. They were a team, Rachael and Bonnie. Nothing or no one could get between them." Michelle said.

The proposed Disneyland Paris visit is intended to offer Bonnie a memorable experience during a difficult period. Michelle said the family hopes the trip will provide emotional support as the child begins to process her mother's death.

"After such a sad event, we thought Bonnie deserves a holiday to Disneyland Paris, where we would love to take her. We are hoping this magical adventure could help in a small way emotionally for Bonnie especially." Michelle said.

Michelle also clarified how the family wants people to commemorate Rachael, directing contributions toward the fundraising appeal rather than floral tributes.

"Please don't send flowers for Rachael's passing. Please make a donation on my GoFundMe page. All proceeds will go towards making Bonnie smile." Michelle said.

Rachael's funeral is scheduled to take place in Manchester on Monday, October 26. Her family and friends continue to remember her while Michelle and Brian care for Bonnie following her mother's death.