Catastrophe star Rob Delaney reveals son’s death
Written by News on 12/02/2018
Comedian and actor Rob Delaney has announced the death of his two-year-old son Henry in an emotional Facebook post.
The 41-year-old American, who stars in the popular UK sitcom Catastrophe, said his family were “devastated” following the toddler’s death from cancer in January.
Two-and-a-half-year-old Henry was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2016. Despite surgery to remove it and further treatment, the cancer returned in autumn last year and he died last month.
Delaney, who lives in London, wrote: “He was smart, funny, and mischievous and we has so many wonderful adventures together. His drive to live and to love and to connect was profound.
“I am astonished by the love-in-action displayed by Henry’s mom and his brothers. They are why I will endeavor to not go mad with grief. I don’t want to miss out on their beautiful lives. I’m greedy for more experiences with them.”
Henry had been left with significant physical disabilities by the tumour, Delaney said, but had “quickly learned sign language and developed his own method of getting from A to B shuffling on his beautiful little bum”.
Delaney also praised nurses and doctors, home carers and charity workers who he described as his “heroes” for helping the family, and urged readers to take “concrete and sustained action” to support the NHS.
He added: “Thank you, beautiful Henry, for spending as much time with us as you did. We miss you so much.”
On Twitter and Facebook, David Baddiel, Alison Moyet and Dom Joly were among those who have expressed their condolences.
Singer Alison Moyet said: “I am so terribly sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine the pain. I wish you and yours what ever comfort is possible.”
Comedian Dom Joly said: “So sorry to hear about your boy.”
Delaney, who was one of the first comedians to develop a fanbase through Twitter, has spoken extensively on the importance of the NHS and in support of universal healthcare in the US.
(c) Sky News 2018: Catastrophe star Rob Delaney reveals son’s death
