Barnaby Webber Foundation’s First Donation Supports Teen with Rare Skin Condition
Staff Editor
2 min read
Family of Nottingham Stabbing Victim Makes Heartwarming Donation
The family of Barnaby Webber, a teenager tragically killed in the Nottingham stabbings last June, has made a touching donation in his memory to a teenage girl battling a rare skin condition. This act of kindness marks the first contribution from The Barnaby Webber Foundation, established to support young people in need.
Emma Webber, Barnaby’s mother, announced the donation live on BBC Breakfast, with former footballer Graeme Souness present as a studio guest. The recipient, 16-year-old Isla Grist from Black Isle, near Inverness, suffers from Epidermolysis bullosa (EB), a condition she has had since birth that requires her to be wrapped in bandages.
“We wanted our first donation to go to somebody who is facing challenges in their life,” Ms. Webber explained. She added that the foundation aims to help various individuals, including those who have experienced loss.
Isla plans to use the donation to purchase a new, lighter wheelchair. Speaking about her condition, she shared, “I have to fight for everything because it’s so rare.”
Ms. Webber expressed being inspired by Isla’s previous appearances on BBC Breakfast. Despite the family’s difficult year following the loss of Barnaby, they felt meeting Isla was “perfect.” She praised the teenager for her bravery, calling her “an inspiring young lady.”
The Nottingham attacks in June 2023 claimed the lives of Barnaby Webber and Grace O’Malley-Kumar, both 19, along with 65-year-old Ian Coates. The incident shocked the community and led to the arrest of Valdo Calocane.
This donation represents a poignant step forward for the Webber family, turning their tragedy into an opportunity to help others facing adversity. The Barnaby Webber Foundation continues to seek stories and ideas for future donations, encouraging public engagement in their mission to support young people in need.
