The family of Barnaby Webber, a teenager who was tragically killed in the Nottingham stabbings in June 2023, has made their first charitable donation through The Barnaby Webber Foundation. This gesture aims to honor Barnaby’s memory and support young people facing significant challenges.
Background on the Tragic Event
In June 2023, Barnaby Webber, 19, from Taunton, Grace O’Malley-Kumar, 19, and Ian Coates, 65, were killed in Nottingham by Valdo Calocane. The tragic incident shocked the community and left a lasting impact on the families involved.
Following the loss of their son, the Webber family established The Barnaby Webber Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to support young people in need and to continue Barnaby’s legacy of helping others.
The Foundation’s First Recipient
The first recipient of a donation from The Barnaby Webber Foundation is 16-year-old Isla Grist, who suffers from a rare skin condition known as Epidermolysis bullosa (EB). This condition causes the skin to blister and tear easily, requiring constant care and bandaging.
Emma Webber, Barnaby’s mother, announced the donation on BBC Breakfast with former footballer Graeme Souness. Ms. Webber explained that the family wanted the initial donation to go to someone who is facing significant life challenges, reflecting Barnaby’s compassionate spirit.
Emma Webber’s Announcement
In her announcement, Ms. Webber expressed the family’s desire to support Isla Grist, highlighting the young girl’s bravery and resilience. “Every day, you’re facing all the stuff you have to go through and we would like to make our very first donation to you because you’re so special,” Ms. Webber said.
She noted the family’s motivation to support someone who has demonstrated strength in the face of adversity. “It’s really difficult, life, sometimes,” Ms. Webber added, emphasizing the importance of providing aid to those who endure significant hardships.
Isla Grist’s Response and Use of Donation
Isla Grist, from Black Isle near Inverness, has been living with Epidermolysis bullosa since birth. The condition requires her to be wrapped in bandages to protect her fragile skin. With the donation from The Barnaby Webber Foundation, Isla plans to purchase a new wheelchair that is lighter and easier to use.
In her response, Isla expressed her gratitude for the donation and explained the challenges she faces due to the rarity and severity of her condition. “I have to fight for everything because my condition is not that well known,” she said.
Reflections on the Donation
Ms. Webber shared that the decision to support Isla was influenced by her admiration for the young girl’s perseverance and bravery. She mentioned having watched Isla’s story on BBC Breakfast and being inspired by her strength. “We’ve had the most horrible year. Suddenly I thought it would be perfect if we were able to meet you,” Ms. Webber said.
She expressed pride in Isla’s resilience and described her as an inspiring young lady. The Webber family’s choice to support Isla reflects their commitment to continuing Barnaby’s legacy of kindness and support for those in need.
The Barnaby Webber Foundation’s Goals
The Barnaby Webber Foundation aims to provide support to young people facing various challenges, with a focus on those who may not receive adequate assistance through other means. The foundation seeks to honor Barnaby’s memory by making a positive impact on the lives of individuals who demonstrate courage and strength in difficult circumstances.
This first donation to Isla Grist marks the beginning of the foundation’s efforts to support deserving young people and to carry forward Barnaby’s legacy of compassion and generosity. The Webber family hopes that their initiative will inspire others to contribute to meaningful causes and support those in need.
