A family has been left devastated after a tragic accident claimed the life of their young son just weeks before his second birthday. Henry Spletter, a lively toddler described as “beautiful in every way,” died after suffering a “non-survivable brain injury” following a choking incident at his nursery in Cairns, north Queensland.
Paramedics rushed to Redlynch’s Busy Bees childcare centre on Thursday, April 24, after Henry was found struggling to breathe. Although medical teams managed to revive him at the scene and airlifted him to Townsville University Hospital, Henry passed away two days later, on Saturday, April 26.
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It remains unclear what caused Henry to choke, and an official investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is ongoing. In a heartbreaking tribute, Henry’s parents, Aaron and Rachel Spletter, remembered their son’s vibrant spirit and expressed their gratitude to those who fought to save him, according to MailOnline.
Ms. Spletter said, “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.”
Despite their unimaginable grief, the Spletters made a selfless decision to donate Henry’s heart, offering hope to another family in need. Ms. Spletter shared that the donation had been successful: “It was successfully transferred to another little boy or girl.”
Busy Bees Australia chief executive Phil McKenzie also issued a statement, reflecting the profound impact Henry’s loss has had on the nursery community. “The entire Busy Bees team is extremely shocked and saddened by Henry’s passing.
Out of respect for the Spletter family and to support our team, the Redlynch centre was closed on Monday,” McKenzie said.
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The broader community has rallied around the grieving family, with overwhelming public support pouring in. A GoFundMe page, launched by family friend Stuart Brown, has already raised more than $115,440 AUD (£55,000) from over 1,000 donors.
A 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.”
It continued: “Your donations will help Aaron, Rachel, and their newborn daughter, Aubrey, take the time they need to grieve, heal, and be together.” Queensland Police confirmed that Henry’s death is not being treated as suspicious and that a report will be prepared for the Coroner.
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