A British tot who had the “biggest grin” has died aged one after a lifelong battle with a rare neurological condition.
Ruben Jude Cross suffered feeding and breathing difficulties and spent much of his short life in and out of hospital.
The youngster was born with enlarged ventricles in his brain and was diagnosed with full-body dystonia shortly afterwards.
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His devastated parents, Jules Ellis and Bradley Cross, announced that Ruben died at around 9pm on 14 August.
He had been receiving end-of-life care for around a month at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton, Somerset.
Announcing the news, mum Jules said her little boy was comfortable and free from pain when he passed away.
She said: “I’m so sad to announce that our baby boy passed away last night around 9pm.
“He was comfortable and pain-free.
“He fought a long and hard fight, and we are so proud of how strong our little boy has been.
“We love you, Ruben Cross, forever and always.”
Ruben’s enlarged ventricles continued to expand, placing pressure on his brain and causing him to stop breathing, according to a GoFundMe launched to support his family.
Doctors reportedly exhausted the available treatment options before Ruben was moved into end-of-life care.
His medication was increased to keep him comfortable.
Ruben, who was born on Christmas Eve in 2024, underwent treatment at hospitals in Taunton and Bristol.
His parents took significant periods away from work to remain by his side.
Heartbroken dad Bradley said the youngster had brought him an immeasurable amount of happiness during their 19 months together.
He said: “What a boy you have been.
“There are no words to describe the amount of joy you have brought me this past 19 months.
“I love you, little man, and I’ll treasure every second I ever got to spend with you.
“You inspire me so much with all the s*** you had to deal with in such a short life.
“You always had the biggest grin on your face.
“It was so fitting after it all that even when you were fighting everything, you’d give the world two fingers.
“The world wasn’t good enough for you.
“I love you so much.”
The fundraiser was established to help Jules and Bradley with Ruben’s funeral, hospital travel and living expenses.
It is also intended to cover earnings lost while the couple were unable to work as they supported their son.
More than £4,400 has been donated by 178 supporters.
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