In Memory of Our Beautiful Baby Boy, Cruz 💙

On 8th March 2026, our beautiful baby boy, Cruz, made his entrance into the world 6 weeks early. His arrival came as a complete shock after such a straightforward and uncomplicated pregnancy, and our world was turned upside down overnight.

At just 1 day old, Cruz was diagnosed with transient leukaemia associated with Down syndrome. We were told that due to how unwell he was that it was likely he may not survive the urgent transfer to the NICU in The Royal Victoria Hopsital in Belfast for life-saving treatment.

But from the very beginning, Cruz showed us just how strong he was.

Against the odds, he made the journey to Belfast and immediately started chemotherapy. During his 13 precious days with us, Cruz fought harder than anyone could have imagined. Time and time again, he amazed everyone around him with his strength and determination.

Heartbreakingly, after completing a week of chemotherapy, Cruz developed an infection which led to severe deterioration and organ failure. On 21st March 2026, at just 13 days old, our brave little fighter passed away peacefully in our arms.

During our time in the NICU, Cruz was cared for with incredible love, compassion and dignity. Because of his treatment, he had his own room and received round-the-clock care from the most amazing nurses and doctors. They not only cared for Cruz with such kindness and compassion, but also supported us through some of most difficult days of our lives.

As parents to our two other boys, Bowie and Ned, we were constantly travelling between home in Annalong and Belfast. Being able to call the NICU at any hour for updates, reassurance and support meant everything to us. The kindness shown to our family is something we will never forget.

To honour Cruz’s memory and give something back to the people who cared for him, we are taking on a fundraising challenge to complete 1,584km — the total distance we travelled between our home and the Royal NICU during the short but precious time Cruz was there.

Thank you so much to everyone who has supported us through donations, messages and kindness. Every single gesture means more than words can express.

Forever loved, forever missed, forever our baby boy Cruz 💙