A toddler has tragically passed away just two months shy of his second birthday after sustaining a 'non-survivable brain injury' in a heartbreaking incident at his nursery.
On Thursday, April 24, paramedics rushed to the nursery where Henry Spletter was fighting for breath after a choking incident. Although medical teams managed to revive him and airlifted him to Townsville University Hospital, he was sadly declared dead just two days later on Saturday, April 26, due to the severity of his brain injury.
The cause of the choking incident remains unclear, and an investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Henry's parents, Aaron and Rachel Spletter, paid a poignant tribute to their son, describing him as 'beautiful in every way'.
Ms Spletter expressed her gratitude to the staff at Redlynch's Busy Bees childcare centre in Cairns, north Queensland, who were with Henry throughout the distressing ordeal. She praised their prompt response, saying: "He was very active, once he got up, you couldn't stop him. To our knowledge, the staff provided great first aid and we're thankful to them for that, as well as emergency services and the Cairns and Townsville ICU departments. So many people did all they could to support him until the end."
In a remarkable act of kindness, the couple decided to donate Henry's heart, which was successfully transplanted into another young child. Busy Bees Australia's chief executive, Phil McKenzie, expressed his shock and sorrow over the tragic loss of young Henry, reports the Mirror.
He stated: "The entire Busy Bees team is extremely shocked and saddened by Henry's passing. Out of respect for the Spletter family and to support to our team, the Redlynch centre was closed on Monday," as reported by MailOnline.
In recent days, public support for the grieving family has been immense. A GoFundMe page, set up by family friend Stuart Brown, has seen generous donations from over 1,000 people, amassing a total of $115,440 AUD (€65,000).
A heartfelt message on the fundraising page read: "We are deeply saddened to share the news of Henry Spletter's passing. Henry was a beloved son, big brother, and shining light in the lives of those who knew him. Aaron, Rachel, and their family are grieving the loss of their precious child.
"Henry's family is now facing an unimaginable challenge, and this GoFundMe has been created to support them during this difficult time. Your donations will help Aaron, Rachel, and their newborn daughter, Aubrey, take the time they need to grieve, heal, and be together.
"We ask that you hold Henry's family in your thoughts and prayers. Every donation, message, and share will bring comfort and support to those who are grieving."
Queensland Police have confirmed that Henry's death is not being treated as suspicious and a report will be prepared for the Coroner.
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