TOUCHING tributes have been paid to 10-year-old Dublin boy Gavin Coyne who passed away in Newcastle yesterday while awaiting a heart transplant.
Gavin, from Donaghmede in North Dublin, suffered from a rare heart condition known as Severe Dilated Cardiomyopathy with Heart Failure.
He had been in hospital in England since his diagnosis last November, as the treatment he required was unavailable in Ireland.
Gavin was first admitted to Crumlin’s Children Hospital in Dublin before being transferred to the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle, where he was waiting for an organ donation.
Tragically, he passed away on Tuesday before a suitable donor could be found.
A group of parents at Gavin’s school, Holy Trinity Primary School in Donaghmede, took to social media to pay tribute to the fourth class pupil.
They wrote on Facebook: "It is with great sadness and shock that we have to inform the Holy Trinity School community of the passing of Gavin Coyne.
"Gavin was one of our fourth class pupils who has been unwell for the last number of months.
"Gavin faced his illness with great bravery but unfortunately he lost his fight yesterday.
Gavin before his diagnosis. Picture: Maria Coyne"For a very young man, Gavin has left an impact on all those who had the pleasure to make his acquaintance.
"We ask you to keep Gavin's family, friends and classmates in your thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
“Rest in peace Gavin.”
A number of messages expressing sympathy and support for Gavin’s family were left under the post.
“Far too young. Sincere condolences to Gavin's family, his classmates, best friends, teacher, such a huge loss,” read one.
Gavin's cousin, Amy Coyne, thanked everyone who donated money through GoFundMe to help Gavin's treatment.
She said: "Thank you so much to everyone who has donated money over the last few weeks. Heartbreakingly, Gavin lost his battle yesterday and gained his angel's wings. RIP to such a beautiful brave boy.
“Any further donations will help bring Gavin home.”
A fundraiser for Gavin's family has been scheduled for February 24, 25, and 26 outside Tesco Clarehall on Dublin’s Malahide Road.
