Mum overwhelmed by tribute to son who died on his birthday

The mum of a teenager who died on his 19th birthday from an aggressive form of bone cancer said "he would be over the moon" having a school award named after him.

Billy Davies, who was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in 2022, died in September after enduring gruelling treatments and two surgeries to remove a tumour near his spine.

The Manchester City fan attended Copleston High School, in Ipswich, and would have finished sixth form a month ago.

His mum, Abi Davies, said she was "overwhelmed" after the school honoured him with a plaque and the Billy Davies Trophy.

"I think he'd have loved that," said Davies, 45. "I just wish he'd have known how loved he really was, that's the sad thing about it all.

"But I think if he was looking down, he'd be over the moon, and so he should because he should be recognised for what he went through."

According to Cancer Research UK, bone sarcoma is the 28th most common cause of cancer death in the UK, with around 420 deaths every year.

After being diagnosed, Billy was forced to take a year off school, during which he had two major operations, months of chemotherapy, and weeks of radiotherapy.

He also had to learn to walk again before returning to school in 2024 to study Business, English and Religious Studies.

Despite his ordeal, his mum said Billy was always a good student who was "so loved" in the school, which is why she believes he is now being celebrated.

The trophy in his name will be awarded to students who excel in certain subjects.

There will also be a plaque with his name on it, alongside the quote "God gives his toughest battles to his strongest soldiers", which he told his mum when in a hospice.

"Billy should have been leaving sixth form alongside his friends this month, so seeing him remembered in such a meaningful way means more to our family than words can fully express," she said.

"Although he is no longer here to celebrate this milestone, knowing that he remains part of the Class of 2026 and has not been forgotten is a great comfort.

"Your gesture will always hold a special place in our hearts."

Davies has organised a football match in memory of Billy, which will take place on 27 June at his school.

"I'll keep talking about Billy, I just want to scream his name out because of what that boy went through," she added.

"He's such a warrior and just inspirational."

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