A Family’s Request for Charity Instead of Funeral Wreaths

One of the most touching aspects of the memorial came from Akbar Abdi’s family.

Rather than encouraging the traditional practice of sending expensive floral wreaths and banners, the family requested that friends, colleagues, and admirers instead donate money to support patients living with epidermolysis bullosa (EB), often referred to as “butterfly disease” because of the fragility of the skin.

The appeal received widespread praise and reflected values that many believed were consistent with Abdi’s generous public image.

Supporters viewed the initiative as a meaningful way to transform grief into practical assistance for vulnerable patients and families.

The charitable request also highlighted broader public awareness of rare diseases in Iran and encouraged many people to contribute to humanitarian causes while honoring the memory of one of the country’s greatest actors.