Australian actress Clare McCann has ended her desperate effort to cryogenically preserve her teenage son after failing to raise enough money in time.
McCann’s 13-year-old son, Atreyu, tragically died by suicide on May 23, 2025. After his death, she launched a GoFundMe campaign in hopes of raising $196,000 to have his body frozen, believing future technology could one day bring him back to life.
Before Atreyu’s death, McCann said she repeatedly contacted the Department of Education and Children’s Services asking for an intervention because of the bullying he allegedly experienced.
“I have medical records, psychologist reports, a formal PTSD diagnosis from his doctor, and emails proving I raised the alarm repeatedly,” she wrote.
“But nothing was done. No one stepped in. And now, my beautiful boy is gone.”
“I knew it was a long shot”
Since the process to have his body frozen needed to happen within seven days to prevent decomposition, McCann was racing against time. Ultimately, she was unable to reach the fundraising goal before the deadline passed.
“I knew it was a long shot but I had to try,” McCann told followers on Instagram, according to Tyla. “Thank you to everyone who tried to help give my baby another chance at life.”
After realizing the preservation would no longer be possible, she confirmed the donations would instead go toward funeral expenses and Atreyu’s final resting place. Atreyu’s funeral was held in Sydney on June 16, according to News.com.au, where McCann delivered an emotional tribute to her son while standing beside his casket.
“Atreyu you saved me from the nothingness,” she said, according to Little Things. “You brought my life indescribable joy when I had none.”
She continued: “As you grew I reveled in your beauty. I always felt so blessed to have such a beautiful and wonderful boy. You were and will always be my best mate. You were the most intelligent, funniest person I have ever known.”
Remaining donations will go toward creating a trust in his name
During the service, McCann also spoke about the bullying she says contributed to her son’s death.
“Upon starting high school he was singled out and bullied by some kids who were jealous of him. They tried to dim his light,” she said.
“Now the world knows his name, his story and his message.”
According to the former GoFundMe description, any remaining donations raised beyond funeral costs will now go toward creating a trust in Atreyu’s name, funding anti-bullying education campaigns and covering legal expenses connected to what McCann describes as failures by authorities to protect her son.
Where to get help
On the topic of mental health and suicide, don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you, or someone you know, is struggling, you can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741, or contact the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990.
If your distress feels unbearable, or if you have suicidal thoughts or plans, contact a psychiatric emergency unit immediately or call 911.
For more information about available resources, visit Mental Health America at mhanational.org.
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