Bolton teenager Rhys Williams placed on end of life care

Rhys Williams was born with the rare skin condition epidermolysis bullosa, which left him covered in blisters, with the skin on his hands and legs fused together.

He was not expected to reach double figures.

Earlier this month, Rhys, who won the hearts of the people of Bolton who sent cards and presents to mark his 18th birthday in September, was admitted to hospital after developing sepsis.

The family were eventually told Rhys would not recover and he is now being transferred to Derian Hospice, a  hospice for children and young people.

Mum Tanya Williams said: “A lot of people love Rhys and he needs the support now more than ever.

“He is not going to get better, there is no chance as his organs are shutting down.”

Rhys, who lives with his family in Johnson Fold, messaged his mum on the night he was admitted to Royal Bolton Hospital two weeks ago saying he was feeling unwell.

After confirming sepsis, doctors prescribed medication and were due to send Rhys home but he deteriorated further.

Tanya said: “They called us all in and told us he was dying.

“He has done his fight and wants to get away from it now.

“I feel like my head is spinning and I have come to terms with it now although, we were all in denial at first.”

The family believe Rhys will not be with them for Christmas and are ‘devastated.’

Tanya said: “I have had many breakdowns, and I am now trying to be the strong one, but I am absolutely broken inside.

“Rhys is exhausted and there is no fight left in him to be honest, we are devastated.

“And he is scared.”

The family are now making funeral preparations for Rhys.

Tanya said: “The funeral has been planned so it takes the stress out of it later on.

“His 11-year-old sister Teegan is taking it so hard, she won’t even speak to us or go to the hospital to see him.”

Rhys celebrated his birthday on September 21 with family, friends and strangers gifting cards to Rhys to help make him happy.

A fundraiser has been organised to give the brave and inspirational youngster  'the send off he deserves'.

Support the family’s funeral costs here. (https://www.gofundme.com/f/rhys-the-eb-fighter?)