Rob Delaney's grief as his two-year-old son dies

Catastrophe star Rob Delaney’s two-year-old son, Henry, has died of cancer.

The comedian revealed the heartbreaking news in a Facebook post earlier today.

He said: ‘I have very sad news. My two and a half year old son Henry has passed away.

‘My wife and Henry's older brothers and I are devastated of course. Henry was a joy. He was smart, funny, and mischievous and we had so many wonderful adventures together.’

Henry was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2016, shortly after his first birthday. He received surgery and treatment through the early part of 2017, but the cancer returned late last year and he died last month.

Delaney added: ‘His tumor and surgery left him with significant physical disabilities, but he quickly learned sign language and developed his own method of getting from A to B shuffling on his beautiful little bum. 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. ‘

The American star also praised the NHS nurses and doctors, as well as the home carers and charity workers  who helped him, saying they  ‘will be my heroes until the day I die. I am desperately sad right now, but I can say with authority that there is good in this world.

‘If you'd like to help other families in the UK with very sick children, please make a donation to Rainbow Trust or Noah's Ark  in Henry's name or in the name of someone you love. Our family would be in much worse shape right now if it weren't for them. I would also urge you to take concrete and sustained action to support the NHS, however you can. Do not take it for granted.

‘Finally, I ask that you respect my family's privacy regarding this matter. I have nothing else to say that I haven't said here.

‘Thank you, beautiful Henry, for spending as much time with us as you did. We miss you so much.’

Published: 9 Feb 2018