The parents of a seven-year-old boy who passed away after being diagnosed with cancer less than a year ago have written touching tributes to their beloved son. Henry McMinn, who had three younger sisters, died on Saturday after battling acute lymphoblastic leukaemia.
He was in remission and receiving treatment after being diagnosed in November 2021. Henry was at home on a farm in rural Victoria with his family when he fell ill. His parents took him to a hospital in Melbourne, but he was later discharged. His health worsened, and he was admitted to the ICU, where testing revealed kidney abnormalities.
Henry had surgery to remove blood clots from his kidneys, but it was too late, and the clots had spread to other organs. He passed away without waking up from surgery. His mother, Naomi Uwland, expressed her grief in a heart-wrenching tribute to her son, calling him an “incredible amazing boy” who was taken “so suddenly.”
She mentioned that the “maintenance” treatment caused his death and stated that she and her husband had questioned it. In a Facebook tribute to his “little Farmer,” Henry’s father, Scott McMinn, shared his heartbreak, calling the experience “lost, gutted, devastated, and angry.” He confirmed that Henry died cancer-free and praised his son’s strength and positivity, told DailyMail.
The Geelong Cats community paid tribute to Henry, with captain Patrick Dangerfield wearing a black armband during the team’s match against Essendon, and star forward Jeremy Cameron honoring Henry with a shaka sign. The club posted a tribute on social media, stating “Fly high Henry,” along with a photo of the team and Henry.
A GoFundMe page was set up to help the family with funeral costs, and it has received over 630 donations totaling more than $55,300. The family unexpectedly had to say goodbye to Henry, and the funds will be used to cover funeral expenses and any ongoing needs. The page states that “Nothing will ever ease the pain of Naomi and Scott losing their firstborn,” and they are grateful for the community’s support.
