The family of a Tandragee teenager who passed away in January have launched a fundraising drive in his memory to help others “who need it most”.
Blake McCaughey’s courage and spirit touched lives far beyond the County Armagh town.
Living with rare genetic conditions, Blake endured years of complex medical treatment and mobility difficulties, yet remained a constant source of inspiration to so many.
His passing, at the age of just 18, came as a huge shock to his family and the many friends he had made over his short life.
Blake’s loss left parents Christine and Andrew and little sister Pixie devastated.
But now they have launched a drive to support others at times of need, doing so in the memory of a very precious young man.
Blake’s Lasting Legacy has been formed, with a Board and Trustees appointed to oversee efforts in the weeks, months and years ahead.
Mum Christine has launched a GoFundMe page as part of that drive.
She explains: “On 17th January 2026, our beautiful son Blake gained his wings and left us for heaven. While our hearts carry a profound grief that words can never truly express, we have made a promise to turn that love for Blake into something that will help other families walking similar paths.
“After 18 years of living alongside Blake’s medical complexities, we understand the challenges, the exhaustion, the fear, the love, and the strength it takes for families caring for medically complex children. We also understand the devastating reality of loss and the deep need for support during grief.
“From this place of love, Blake’s Lasting Legacy has been created.
“Our goal is to support families in our community who are caring for medically complex children and those who, heartbreakingly, are navigating life after loss. Through Blake’s legacy, we hope to provide practical support, comfort, and meaningful moments for families who need it most.”
Blake’s family and the Lasting Legacy team have set their sights on providing, among other things, memory boxes, sibling memory packs, family bereavement support, tubie tapes, medicine mats and medical equipment bags.
They would also like to be in a position to offer family experiences and create memory-making events, and so much more, all for “families who need a helping hand”.
Christine adds: “Blake taught us so much in his 18 years — resilience, compassion, patience, and unconditional love. Now we want to use everything we learned from walking this journey with him to help others who are facing similar challenges.
“But we cannot do this alone.
“As a community, we are asking for your support to help keep Blake’s memory and legacy alive, while improving resources and providing support for families who need it most.
“We have many fundraising ideas and plans ahead, and we would be so grateful for the support of our friends, family, and wider community as we begin this journey.
“Together, we can turn Blake’s story into something that continues to bring comfort, support, and love to others.
“Blake’s legacy will live on through every family we help.”
For more information visit the Blake’s Last Legacy page on Facebook.
And if you would like to donate to the GoFundMe appeal, you can do so here.
