A community in County Wicklow is united in grief after the sudden and tragic death of an eight-year-old boy, Matthew, who passed away just days after breaking his arm at school.
A Mother's Heartbreaking Loss
Ciara Breen has spoken of her immeasurable pain following the death of her son, Matthew, on November 17. The boy from Rathnew, Co Wicklow, was initially rushed to hospital on November 6 after he broke his arm in two places while at school.
His concerned mother brought him back to the hospital the following day for a scheduled surgery. It was during this visit that Matthew suddenly began to feel unwell. He was prescribed tablets and steroids by doctors, but his condition worsened, and he was vomiting all day.
A Rapid and Tragic Decline
Matthew's health continued to deteriorate. He began struggling to breathe, prompting medical staff to make an appointment for him to see a lung specialist. However, on the Monday, his situation became critical, and he stopped breathing entirely.
Emergency services were called and managed to resuscitate him before rushing him back to the hospital, where he was placed on life support. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, the young boy sadly died on November 17.
Matthew was the eldest of five children and was adored by his brothers and sisters, Tyler, Oliver, Olivia, and Amelia.
Remembering a 'Lovable' Boy
In a heartfelt tribute to her son days after his funeral, Ciara remembered Matthew as a kind and joyful soul. She described him as heart-warming and said he hated to see anyone upset, always striving to make everyone happy.
He was a massive Liverpool FC fan with an obsession for football, often going to the pitch after school with his father, Callum. Ciara said, He was gentle, warm and caring and could never fault you for anything.
Matthew also loved playing Fortnite with his brothers and cousins and was known as a messer who enjoyed telling jokes. His laugh alone would melt your heart, his mother added.
To support the grieving family, Ciara's sister-in-law, Lauren Frampton, has launched a GoFundMe campaign. The fundraiser aims to alleviate the financial stress on the family during this incredibly difficult time.
Tributes have poured in from his schools. A teacher from his former school, St Joseph's National School in Arklow, recalled his cheeky little smile, while a staff member from his current school, St. Patrick's National School, said Matthew brought so much happiness to our school and that his smiley face would be dearly missed.
