## North Wales Community Mourns Groom-to-be as Friends Honour His Legacy with Tribute Walk
A close-knit community in North Wales has been left devastated by the sudden death of a much-loved nurse, Robyn Parry, aged 36, just days after plans for his upcoming wedding were set in motion. The tragedy unfolded merely hours after he and his fiancée, Bryony, posted invitations to their eagerly anticipated celebration—planned for August—bringing shock and deep sorrow to family and friends.
Robyn Parry, originally from the Anglesey village of Valley and most recently living in Penrhyn Bay near Llandudno, was remembered not only as a dedicated healthcare professional but also as a lifelong warrior against the rare condition Diamond Blackfan Anaemia. Despite the challenges posed by this uncommon bone marrow disorder, which meant regular hospital treatments from childhood, Robyn trained as a nurse in 2018 and went on to support patients at Ysbyty Gwynedd and Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, including work on haematology and oncology wards. Many former colleagues and patients have shared tributes, describing him as extraordinarily compassionate and committed.
The tragic news broke only a few days after friends and family received their invitations in the post for Robyn’s wedding to Bryony. For those close to the couple, this turn of events quickly shifted the mood from hope and celebration to unimaginable grief. One of Robyn’s closest friends, Glyn Owen, who was due to serve as groomsman, recounted the moment he received the devastating call. He, like many others, initially thought the message would be about light-hearted stag party plans, only to be met with a heart-breaking update.
In the wake of Robyn’s passing, his friends resolved to commemorate his life in a way that echoed both his roots and his indomitable spirit. Instead of preparing to celebrate his wedding, Glyn and best man Ben Brame have organised an ambitious charity walk around the 130-mile Anglesey Coastal Path. The event is not only a nod to the countless adventures the group shared on the island but will also raise vital funds for the Diamond Blackfan Anaemia Support Group UK, supporting others who live with the same rare disorder.
The tribute walk, which is to be completed over nine days, has gathered momentum as friends, family and the broader community have been invited to participate. Organisers have encouraged anyone who knew Robyn—or whose life was touched by his story—to join them for any part of the journey. As Glyn Owen shared, “We’d like this to be a celebration of Rob’s life, a way to unite everyone during what should have been a joyful week, and to keep alive his message of living life to the fullest.”
Special resonance will be given to one poignant section of the walk, as the group plans to pause near Porth Trecastell (Cable Bay) in remembrance of another dear friend, Lewis Darroch. It has been nearly 14 years since Lewis tragically lost his life there while attempting to rescue someone in danger—a memory that deeply affected Robyn and his friends.
True to Robyn’s personality and interests, those taking part will also celebrate his love of comic books by wearing superhero outfits during sections of the trek. The light-hearted homage reflects the sense of fun Robyn brought to his relationships and his youthful resilience during long hospital stays, often comforted by the escapades of his fictional heroes.
Beyond walking, other planned activities include group swims, beach barbecues and gatherings at local pubs—each activity carefully chosen to reflect the zest for adventure and the camaraderie that marked Robyn’s life. The organisers hope this approach serves as a healing space for everyone affected, while also creating lasting memories.
Donations to support the Diamond Blackfan Anaemia Support Group can be made through their JustGiving page, and all are welcome to participate—whether for a single day or just to share a moment of remembrance over coffee.
The loss of Robyn Parry has left a significant void, but the outpouring of support stands as a testament to his enduring influence. As his friends and loved ones journey around Anglesey, their steps will echo a collective commitment to remember, to celebrate, and to inspire action in his honour.