Toddler who died in nursery incident’s selfless act as parents pay heartbreaking tribute

Henry Spletter died just two months shy of his second birthday.

A young child has died just two months before his second birthday after a horror choking incident caused a “non-survivable brain injury”.

Henry Spletter was at nursery in Cairns, North Queensland, Australia on Thursday, April 24 when he started choking and struggling to breathe. Paramedics were called, and manage to resuscitate him before rushing him to Townsville University Hospital.

Unfortunately, he tragically died just two days later. It is still unknown what the tot choked on, as an investigation into his death gets underway.

His parents Aaron and Rachel Spletter paid an emotional tribute to their son, describing him as “beautiful in every way”, the Mirror reports.

Ms Spletter praised the nursery staff at Redlynch’s Busy Bees childcare centre, who stayed by Henry’s side during the terrifying ordeal.

She 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.”

She revealed that they had made the decision to donate Henry’s heart, which has already been “successfully transferred to another little boy or girl”.

Busy Bees Australia chief executive Phil McKenzie said: “The entire Busy Bees team is extremely shocked and saddened by Henry’s passing. Out of respect for the Spletter family and to support to our team, the Redlynch centre was closed on Monday.”

A fundraising page has been created by a family friend, with kind donations from over 1,000 people already totalling $115,440 AUD (£55,000).

A message posted on the page said: “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.

“Henry’s family is now facing an unimaginable challenge, and this GoFundMe has been created to support them during this difficult time. Your donations will help Aaron, Rachel, and their newborn daughter, Aubrey, take the time they need to grieve, heal, and be together.

“We ask that you hold Henry’s family in your thoughts and prayers. Every donation, message, and share will bring comfort and support to those who are grieving.”

Queensland Police said the youngster’s death was not being treated as suspicious, with a report due to be prepared for the Coroner.