At the time of writing, 556 people had donated to the GoFundMe appeal, which was created to help Abbie’s family following the devastating tragedy.
The 16-year-old, from Swindon, died on 30th July while on holiday with her family in the Dominican Republic. The heartbreaking story has since been picked up by national media, with tributes highlighting the remarkable impact Abbie had on those around her.
Abbie was a Year 11 student at Ridgeway School and a much-loved athlete and coach with Swindon Lightning Cheerleading Club.
In a moving tribute, Swindon Lightning described her as a young woman whose
“kindness, infectious smile, unwavering encouragement and love for cheerleading touched the lives of so many athletes, coaches and families over the years.”
The club added: “She brought so much light to our gym, and her loss has left us all heartbroken.”
Ridgeway School also remembered Abbie as “a bright light” within the Year 11 community, with headteacher Helen Buttery saying she was “much loved by staff and students alike”.
Further tributes have emerged from Tanwood School for Performing Arts, where Abbie trained before taking up competitive cheerleading.
The dance school said:
“Abbie joined Tanwood as a dinky dot and was part of an exceptional group of dancers who formed strong friendships which spilled over to the audience when they performed together.
“She always performed with a huge smile, and those beautiful feet.
“We are all in complete shock at this heartbreaking news and send so much love and support to her family and friends at this unimaginable time.
“You will always be in our hearts.”
Public reports have linked her death to a boat explosion off the coast of Bayahíbe, although the exact circumstances have not been formally confirmed by the family or authorities. It is understood that Abbie’s brother, Bradley, and sister, Carley, were also seriously injured in the incident.
A remembrance evening was held at Swindon Lightning on Sunday, bringing together current and former athletes, coaches, families and friends to celebrate Abbie’s life and share memories of the teenager who inspired so many young cheerleaders.
The GoFundMe appeal was launched by family friend Becky Jamieson, who wrote:
“Abbie had her whole life ahead of her. She should have been enjoying the summer with her friends and looking forward to receiving her GCSE results.
“She was so loved by her family, friends and everyone who knew her.
“This page has been set up to support the family through this unimaginable time. For Abbie, forever 16, forever loved and never forgotten.”
The overwhelming response from hundreds of donors in just one day reflects the enormous impact Abbie had, not only within the Swindon community, but far beyond.
Those wishing to support the family can donate via the In Loving Memory of Abbie Lainton GoFundMe page.
