THREE-YEAR-OLD Morgan Ridler, who captured the heart of the nation, has sadly passed away after a brave battle with a rare and complex form of cancer. Morgan, from Swansea, was diagnosed at the age of two in October 2021. Despite undergoing treatment, his condition worsened, and his parents Natalie and Matthew were informed that palliative care was the next step. Throughout his journey, Morgan became the inspiration behind Morgan’s Army Charitable Foundation, spreading the message that “No One Fights Alone.”
Last week, in a touching display of support, hundreds of people lined the streets to give Morgan a memorable day. The event featured a drive-by from numerous supercars, including a Mercedes F1 car, and Morgan even had the opportunity to take his first plane ride alongside his parents. The community’s love for Morgan was further demonstrated when hundreds of vehicles, ranging from Harleys and vintage Vespas to supercars and fire engines, participated in a parade past his home in Gorseinon. The outpouring of support was so overwhelming that it took an hour and a half for the procession to pass by, with the sounds of engines roaring, revving, and honking filling the air.
However, on Monday, June 26, Natalie and Matthew delivered a heartbreaking update, revealing that Morgan’s pain was increasing, necessitating a move to Ty Hafan hospice. Tragically, on Wednesday, June 28, Morgan’s loved ones shared the devastating news of his passing on the Morgan’s Army Facebook page. In their heartfelt post, they expressed their deep sorrow while highlighting Morgan’s peaceful and comfortable final moments surrounded by his family. They wrote, “MORGAN GARETH JOHN RIDLER 07.07.2019 – 28.06.2023. Our beautiful boy started on his next great adventure at approximately 5.30am this morning. He was peaceful and comfortable with his family around him… No more pain now, you fought so hard for so long, you always smiled regardless, you always laughed, you always loved.”
The post, accompanied by a poignant photograph of a loved one tenderly holding Morgan’s hand, received an outpouring of tributes and condolences from people far and wide. Morgan’s impact on the lives of others was undeniable, with countless individuals expressing gratitude for the love and unity he brought into their lives. His parents acknowledged the profound effect he had on them, stating, “In us you have inspired more love than I ever thought possible, you’ve created power for good and we are so grateful for you.”
Among the mourners, Tonia Antoniazzi MP, Member of Parliament for Gower, conveyed her love and strength to the family. Others expressed gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of Morgan’s life and marveled at the extraordinary impact he had on others. Many recognized Morgan’s enduring legacy and pledged to continue raising awareness and funds to ensure that “no one fights alone.”
Even beyond the confines of social media, tributes poured in. Bridgend Ravens, a football club, expressed their devastation at Morgan’s passing and extended their love and support to Natalie and her family, emphasizing the sentiment, “No One Fights Alone.”
Morgan Ridler, the car-mad little boy who won the hearts of many, may have left this world far too soon, but his spirit and the love he shared will endure. His parents, Natalie and Matthew, lead incredible tributes to their son, acknowledging the profound impact he had on their lives. In their poignant message, they expressed their gratitude for the love he inspired and the power for good he created. They declared, “In us you have inspired more love than I ever thought possible, you’ve created power for good, and we are so grateful for you.
