Mother Asks Ducks Fans to Bring Flowers to Autzen Stadium in Memory of 19-Year-Old Son.
EUGENE, Ore. — September 5, 2026 — As Oregon Ducks fans prepare to gather at Autzen Stadium on Saturday, the mother of a 19-year-old who died last month is asking supporters to bring something small but meaningful: a flower in memory of her son.
Blayz Walker Caceres, 19, died on August 11, 2026, after a mental-health crisis. His death has left his family, friends, and loved ones grieving while searching for ways to remember the young man beyond the circumstances of his death.
His mother, Eva Prahar Wilnau, recently shared an emotional message asking Ducks fans attending Saturday’s game to help create a temporary tribute for Blayz.
A Mother’s Request
Wilnau said she hopes fans will bring a flower to Autzen Stadium and leave it near the area at the front entrance where Blayz’s memory has become associated with the stadium.
She explained that Blayz loved flowers and that even a simple flower from someone’s garden would carry special meaning for the family.
Her request is intended to honor her son during the first Ducks home game following his death while also drawing attention to the importance of mental-health awareness. GoFundMe
“He loved flowers,” Wilnau wrote, asking those attending the game to help fill the space with “a little love for Blayz and a little hope” for someone who may be struggling.
Remembering Blayz
Blayz was remembered by his family as much more than the mental-health struggles he experienced.
At just 19, he was a beloved son, family member, and friend whose absence has left an enormous void in the lives of those closest to him.
His family says they want him remembered for the person he was—the memories he created, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave to those around him.
“Nineteen is far too young,” the family said in a tribute, describing the loss as one that has created a deep emptiness for everyone who loved him.
A Message About Mental Health
Wilnau’s appeal also carries a broader message about mental health and the importance of reaching out to young people who may be struggling.
She urged people to talk openly about mental health, listen without judgment, and remind young people that they are valued and loved.
Her message comes from a place of profound grief, but also from a desire to turn Blayz’s memory into an opportunity to encourage compassion and awareness.
Flowers at Autzen Stadium
For Saturday’s game, Wilnau is asking Ducks fans who are able to participate to bring a flower to the stadium.
The gesture does not need to be elaborate. A single flower, she said, would be enough to help honor Blayz.
For his family, the tribute is about remembering a 19-year-old whose life meant so much to the people around him.
As fans gather at Autzen Stadium, the flowers are intended to serve as a quiet reminder of Blayz, the love surrounding his family, and the importance of making sure people who are struggling know that they matter.
Forever 19.