THE mum of a 21-year-old teacher who died in a car crash two years ago has said every day is still hard for the family, who have channelled their grief into creating a memorial trust in their loved ones honour.
Rhiannon Smith died in hospital on March 22, 2017, six days after a car crash near her family home in Hendrew Lane, Llandevaud.
Shortly after her death, parents Gill and Julian Smith set up the Rhiannon Jade Smith Memorial Trust.
The trust raises money for traumatic brain injury research and supports a PGCE student with a bursary. It also focusses on campaigning for greater awareness around road safety.
Speaking to the Argus shortly after the anniversary of Rhiannon’s death, Ms Smith said that every day was still a struggle for the family.
(Rhiannon Smith (second from left) with (L-R) mum Gill, dad Julian and sister Sophie)
“It helps to try and make a positive out of a negative, and that’s really why we’ve set up the trust,” said Ms Smith.
“It’s about trying to make sure this doesn’t happen to anyone else.
“Every day is hard, and anniversaries can focus the pain. But we think about her every minute of every day.
“There are five deaths a day on the roads in this country, and it’s something we can be in control of. This is something that should be surmountable.
“We should be able to do something about it.”
Rhiannon studied at Cardiff University, where her trust funds research into traumatic brain injury – the cause of her untimely death.
The trust also gives a bursary to one PGCE student at Gloucester University, where Rhiannon studied to become a teacher.
(The Rhiannon Jade Smith Memorial Trust was set up after the 21-year-old teacher's death)
In September last year, a road safety conference was hosted by the memorial trust at the Celtic Manor hotel, and there are plans for a second conference later this year.
Rhiannon’s parents are also supporting the 20s Plenty campaign to introduce mandatory 20mph limits on residential roads.
On Saturday, April 6, a fundraising concert will be held at the Usk Memorial Hall from 7pm, where the Gwent Police Choir will be performing along with soloist Alyson Jones.
Tickets cost £7.50, and are available from Mr and Mrs Smith directly (07816393389 or 07815563909), or at the door on the night.
Proceeds will go towards the work of the Rhiannon Jade Smith Memorial Trust.
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