Trigger warning: This article mentions newborn loss.
On 8 December 2024, The Block stars Dan Reilly and Dani Wales welcomed their beautiful daughter Billie Vera Reilly into the world. This week the new parents were forced to say goodbye to their daughter as Billie gained her angel wings.
‘Always Be Our Daughter’
Dan and Dani shared a joint statement on Instagram, announcing the passing of their daughter with an image of the new parents with Billie in her cot in hospital. Billie passed away on Wednesday 18 December at just 10 days old.
It is with insurmountable grief that we share the news that our daughter Billie, has passed on from this life and into the next at just 10 days young.
In Billie’s short time in this world, she taught us an intensity of both love and pain we never knew possible. She taught us what really matters. Billie was so wanted, so loved and she made us parents… and what an honor it is to be her mummy and daddy. She will always be our daughter.
It’s clear to us that Billie was far too good for this world but if we know anything for sure, it’s that Billie’s legacy will make an impact greater than all of us.”
Don’t Have Answers
Dan and Dani thanked the staff at the Royal Women’s Hospital for the incredible care they gave Billie and have also started a fundraiser with all funds raised going to the staff at The Royal Women’s Hospital. They also thanked @mrskevinsphotos and @heartfelt_ausnz for capturing photos of their daughter’s short life.
The heartbroken parents also explained that at this stage, they don’t have many answers:
We’ll share more in time but for now we ask for privacy as we work through this together and with our loved ones.”
Dani signed off her post with an emotional quote to her daughter:
“You look so pretty, pretty like the sun. I could watch forever, while you shine on everyone.”
We love you Billie.”
Dan and Dani’s Rise to Fame
Dani and Dan first appeared on the Block in 2012 and placed second. They returned in 2013 for The Block All Stars and took third. Dan has since taken on a role as a foreman on the show and they also host the Dan vs Dani series, critiquing each team’s Room Reveals every week.
The couple married in 2018 and announced they were expecting their first child together last July.
Fundraiser for Billie’s Besties
If you would like to make a contribution to Billie’s Besties at The Royal Women’s Hospital, you can do so through their fundraising page.
We want to make special mention of ‘Billie’s Besties’ at @theroyalwomens – the nurses, doctors & staff in NICU are some of the most incredible people to walk this earth and we’ll be forever grateful for the care and love they gave our girl, and us.”
At the time of writing, over $15,500 was raised thanks to the generosity and support of the Australian community.
All of us here at Mum Central wish Dan and Dani our support as they navigate this devastating loss.
