Rhiannon remembered

By Bridget Brady
ONE year on from her daughter’s death, Rose Landells says there is plenty to smile about.
Her eldest child, Rhiannon, died on 20 May last year aged 17 after suffering a rare Ewing’s Sarcoma tumour in her spine.
Ms Landells said although Rhiannon’s diagnosis in December 2005 was devastating, her daughter’s wish was for her mother to look back on her life and be happy.
“I made her a promise that I’d always think of her and smile,” Ms Landells said.
“The diagnosis came out of the blue, but Rhiannon taught me you need to do something positive with someone’s passing.
“All the way through she said to me ‘don’t worry Mum’. She was very strong and was determined to get the most out of life.”
There was more reason to smile this week when students at Rhiannon’s school, Cranbourne Secondary College, dressed up in bright colours to commemorate the one year anniversary of her death and help raise money for palliative care. They raised at least $1000.
Ms Landells said it was heart-warming to see all students dressed up.
“She had a really great network of friends at the school. I just can’t thank the school enough. They have been absolutely fantastic.
“She was a bubbly person and loved bright colours. I’m hoping Rainbow for Rhiannon Day can become an annual event and something held in other local schools.”
Home palliative care allowed Rhiannon to pass away at her home in Cranbourne.
“She hated being in hospital and home palliative care gave her the opportunity to pass at home.
“When she passed we were all in the room with her. I know it sounds strange but I was there when she was born and to be there when she passed was beautiful.”
Ms Landells said she wanted to raise money for palliative care and make the community aware it was not just for older people.
She would also like to raise money for research into Ewing’s Sarcoma. Anyone who can help with setting up a research charity can call Rose on 0403 860 947.