Rida, our dear sister, will be deeply missed by all our family and her dear friends. Rida was one of a kind, she had an unforgettable sense of humour and brought laughter and light to many people. Rida went above and beyond in everything she did and nothing was ever too much. She was passionate about supporting people through grief as sadly, she experienced so much of her own. Good Grief meant the world to Rida and she worked hard in contributing to its creation. I know she would want this to continue, for others, especially those who miss her so much now. Rida’s legacy will live on and our family would kindly ask that you make a donation, in her memory, to support a cause she held so close to her heart.

In memory of Rida Rennoldson, this donation page has been set up by her family, supported by Ugly Bucket, Dramatic Recovery and Care Merseyside. Donations will go towards copies of The Good Grief Graphic Novel, with an extension of Rida’s interview, that will be gifted to bereavement charities and organisations in her name. We hope that this pay forward scheme, will allow others in need to read Rida’s words and feel hope.

In 2019, Rida became a crucial contributor to the development of Good Grief - a theatrical production by Ugly Bucket, supported by Dramatic Recovery and Care Merseyside. Rida courageously shared the story of her relationship with grief after losing her parents, and her profound insight and wisdom naturally became a beacon within this production.

BBC documentary about Rida’s contribution to Good Grief

Rida’s authenticity, and words of hope and perseverance in the face of darkness have gone on to touch and inspire audiences in their grief across the UK.

As a result of participating in Good Grief, Rida continued to volunteer for Care Merseyside in the capacity of providing emotional support to their elderly client population during the pandemic. Before embarking on her medical studies, she befriended a retired NHS nurse who was isolated and living alone. She received recognition on Knowsley Council’s roll of honour in thanks for her selfless benevolence.

In 2022, Rida’s words were printed in the Good Grief graphic novel. A play text of Good Grief, illustrated by Kidda Kinsey and published by Methuen Drama (supported by the Untapped Award). This book was close to Rida’s heart, and something she was deeply proud of to be passed through generations, to her friends and family, that immortalises her journey, her parents memory, and gives those struggling with bereavement a new and alternative way to explore grief.

Rida’s passing is a loss beyond words. She was courageous, passionate, and lived wholeheartedly . We know that she will be so deeply missed. Her impact on those around her, and influence on the conversation around grief and mental health is never to be underestimated.

These donations will pay forward copies of The Good Grief Novel, with an extension of Rida’s interview, to be donated to organisations and charities close to Rida’s heart, so she may continue to inspire and help others as she so often did in life.

From Dramatic Recovery -

We had the privilege of knowing Rida whilst studying drama at university together. Rida was always brave, honest and used her humour and strength as a way to connect deeper with people. She had a light that shone so effortlessly.

Rida’s work towards helping others with their grief and mental health was always an inspiration to us as a company but also as young women, to be more like her, resilient and radiant Rida.

We have followed Rida’s journey with pride and admiration. Working in similar fields, we closely kept in touch and supported each other in a way she taught us how. It meant so much to hear from her that we were doing the right thing.

We hope good grief can continue the legacy of Rida and shine a light on her strength, honesty and vulnerability, something we should all be proud to own just like her.