“We couldn’t let anyone else go through what we did, that feeling of desperation and pressure to raise money to try and save his life,” said Katy, whose work has been recognised by the Pride of Britain awards, external.
“I don’t regret trying to raise money, but I wish I didn’t have to miss that quality time I could’ve had with Joseph.
“So if we can relieve that burden for mums and dads that are going through hell, and give them time to spend every precious moment with their child rather than worrying about the money, then that’s a positive legacy for Joseph.
“It’s important for us as a family as it has helped in our grief, it feels like we’re keeping him alive and doing him proud.”
Katy and her sister Emma Rees, 43, formed the Joseph’s Smile, external foundation to distribute funds raised for Joseph’s treatment to other ill children, and are currently supporting 16 families.
The two mums helped attract football stars like former Swansea and Wales captain Ashley Williams and international teammate Joe Ledley to line-up alongside rugby legends Shane Williams and Gareth Thomas, plus reality TV stars Liam Reardon and Jordan Davies, in a Wales team managed by Welsh Euro 2016 boss Chris Coleman for the celebrity match.
