Rhys' story
Rhys was just five weeks away from his 18th birthday when his family found him unresponsive in bed on the morning of 13 May 2021. In the lead up, there had been no clear warning signs, only moments where he had felt unusually tired. The day before was completely normal, filled with school, kicking the footy with his mates, then home for study, exercise and dinner. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Rhys died from a sudden cardiac arrest, and to this day, no cause has been found.
​
The eldest of three boys, Rhys was kind, funny, cheeky and full of energy. He had a natural confidence and leadership about him, always setting challenges for himself and encouraging those around him. Whether it was pushing his physical limits or expanding his vocabulary, he was constantly striving to improve. His compassion and ability to include others is something many people remember about him.
​
Rhys was a talented athlete who loved AFL, earning a place in the Dandenong Stingrays squad and the St Kilda Academy. At 16, he was forced to step away from football due to post-concussion syndrome, but he approached recovery with determination, focusing on building his strength and fitness so he could return to the game he loved.
Outside of sport, Rhys had a passion for fishing from a young age. He taught himself through books and YouTube, spending hours out on the water, often on his kayak. He loved sharing this with others, mentoring his younger brother and friends, and even creating a fishing YouTube channel.
​
He was always active, always moving, and always pushing himself. Rhys was incredibly fit and disciplined, following his own training routines and setting high standards for himself in everything he did.
​
In 2020, after a concussion, Rhys was diagnosed with an arrhythmia. He underwent testing and saw a specialist, and was ultimately told it was likely genetic and safe for him to return to normal activity, with no further follow up required.
​
Since his passing, his family has continued with cardiac investigations and genetic testing, searching for answers that still have not come.
​
Through their grief, they have connected with the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, finding some comfort in knowing they are not alone, while also confronting how many families are facing similar loss. Rhys is now part of the EndUCD Registry, a research project working to better understand sudden cardiac death in young people.
​
By sharing his story, his family hopes to raise awareness, support research, and help prevent other families from experiencing the same heartbreak.
​
Rhys will always be remembered for his energy, his determination, and his cheeky spirit.
​
Written by David and Anna Gillard, Rhys' parents.