Adrian Rodriguez

In Loving Memory of Adrian Rodriguez Galarza

21 December 2017 – 1 February 2026

Written by Adrian's parents.

Adrian Rodriguez Galarza was a bright, beautiful little boy who brought so much happiness into the world in his short life.

Born in Getafe, Madrid, Adrian moved to the UK with his parents at just 3 months old. They initially made their home in Milton later settling in Waterbeach. For nearly eight years, Adrian had a wonderful, happy, and joyful life.

He was a humble, gentle, clever and kind boy — a little shy at times, but always smiling and friendly to those around him. He was deeply connected to his family and friends, and that love was felt by everyone who knew him.

Adrian loved being active and was full of life. He was an excellent swimmer and a wonderful dancer. He enjoyed riding his bike and scooter, and playing football. He attended Waterbeach Community Primary School, where he was a very good student, with a particular love for numbers and maths — especially Roman numerals, which he had already begun to learn ahead of his age.

Adrian's parents will always treasure the memory of a certificate he was awarded at school for good behaviour. It was a small but deeply meaningful reflection of the gentle, kind boy he was.

Then, on 22 November 2025, Adrian's life suddenly changed when he became unwell and was rushed to A&E at Addenbrooke's hospital, just one month before his eighth birthday.

Adrian was suddenly struck down with FIRES (Febrile Infection Related Epilepsy Syndrome). A rare, life-threatening neurological emergency that causes the sudden onset of relentless, non-stop seizures that are incredibly difficult - and sometimes impossible - to stop.

Adrian was placed into an induced coma in an effort to stop his seizures and protect his brain from the damage they can cause. He fought incredibly bravely for many weeks in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, with his parents by his side.

Despite Adrian's extraordinary fight and the tireless efforts of his medical team, his seizures could not be stopped. Adrian passed away on 1 February 2026, at just eight years old.

Adrian's life was cut far too short, but his story is one filled with love, warmth and joy.

His strength, courage and determination will never be forgotten.

His father shares these words:

“Adrian, we know that you are here now, watching over us. We know you will always stay with us.

Thank you, our beautiful son, for helping Mum and Dad understand that we must move forward, because we still have your two little siblings to raise.

That is your legacy. Your brother and sister will always remember you. They will tell your story, and your memory will live on through them.

You had such a wonderful story. For us, it is so incredibly hard that you had to leave so early, so young.

You are, and always will be, loved forever and ever.

You fought so bravely, and we will never forget that.

We believe you are in a better place now, and that gives us peace.

And one day — sooner or later — we will meet again, and we will play together in that better place.”

Adrian will always be remembered for his kindness, his smile, his love of life, and the joy he brought to those around him.

Forever loved. Forever remembered.