On behalf of Winnie's family.

Winnie Mayele was a bright, kind and selfless young woman whose strength, endurance and love for life touched everyone who knew her.

Winnie was just 17 years old when she was diagnosed with a rhabdomyosarcoma on her right kidney in 2023. Despite facing such a rare and serious illness at such a young age, she showed remarkable courage throughout her journey. In 2024, Winnie bravely beat renal cancer, giving hope to those around her. Sadly, in July 2025, the cancer returned, and after continuing to fight with incredible resilience, Winnie passed away at just 19 years old, on the 20th of December.

Winnie was deeply passionate about football, a game she loved with her whole heart. She proudly played for Droylsden Women’s Football Club and Macclesfield Women’s, where she was not only a dedicated player but also a valued teammate and friend. Football brought her joy, purpose, and a sense of community that she deeply cherished.

Because her renal cancer was rare, Winnie was passionate about raising awareness and helping others understand the illness, especially how it can affect young people. Even while battling cancer herself, she remained thoughtful and considerate of others.

Throughout Winnie’s illness, her mum became her full-time carer, stepping away from work entirely to support her through treatment and daily care, dedicating herself fully to Winnie and the family during this incredibly difficult time.

Please note that we are raising funds to help cover funeral and related expenses, to give Winnie the dignified and loving farewell she deserves, and to support her family during this time of loss. Any contribution, no matter how small, is deeply appreciated, as is sharing this page.

All funds raised will be used exclusively to cover funeral and burial costs for Winnie Mayele. Funds will be received by Ryan and Joyce Bartley and transferred to Winnie's Family, who are arranging and paying for the funeral. Any remaining funds will be used for related memorial or associated costs, as agreed by the family.

Thank you for helping us honour Winnie’s life, strength, and beautiful spirit.

Romans 8:38-39

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.