A Bessbrook toddler has tragically passed away just a month after receiving a devastating leukaemia diagnosis.
Chester–Roonies Byrne, who was just two years old, fell asleep peacefully in the tender care of the Royal Victoria Hospital for Sick Children on Saturday (May 10), surrounded by his devoted parents, Emma and David.
A funeral notice for Chester described the toddler as the cherished brother of Reuben and the grandson of Elaine and Liam Byrne, Elizabeth and Pat Quinn, and the late Anne Vint (née Quinn), RIP.
Chester’s parents launched a campaign – Chester’s Chance – in the aftermath of the diagnosis to raise vital funds for the Children’s Cancer Unit Charity, but also to raise awareness of B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia and highlight the growing communication gap between GPs and families.
Mum Emma knew “instinctively” her son was seriously unwell; however, her efforts to get answers were harder than they needed to be.
Speaking last month, Emma said: “Unfortunately, after numerous visits to A&E, a private GP appointment and phone calls voicing our concerns with our own GP, nobody was taking my concerns at face value. I had to be my son’s advocate and push because I knew that something more was wrong – and, devastatingly enough, I was right.”
ALL is a “rapidly progressing” blood and bone marrow cancer that affects the immune system and blood cells, characterised by the overproduction of immature white blood cells in the bone marrow. It can spread to the lymph nodes, central nervous system, and other organs, and can affect both children and adults – but is most often diagnosed in younger people.
Following Chester’s devastating diagnosis, Emma and David launched the fundraising appeal which has raised over £18,000 to date.
Sadly, Chester’s own fight has now ended, but his legacy will continue to live on. Emma and David have vowed to continue his legacy through @Chesterschance – using his social media campaign to share his story, raise awareness, and support the Children’s Cancer Unit Charity.
“Though our hearts are broken, our mission is clear,” they wrote. “Chester’s bravery and spirit will guide us as we work to help other children and families facing the unimaginable. We love you to the moon and back forever, our Chester–Roonies. Xxx.”
If you would like to call to Chester’s home – 36 Hillcrest Avenue, Bessbrook – to pay your respects, visiting times are from 4pm to 8pm on Monday, May 12, and Tuesday, May 13.
Chester will leave his home on Wednesday, May 14 at 9.45am for 10.45am Requiem Mass in St Joseph’s Church, Meigh. Cremation will follow later in Lakelands Crematorium, Co Cavan.
Chester will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his mother, father, brother, grandparents and entire family circle. May he rest in peace.
You can make a donation to Chester’s Chance GoFundMe page here.
