Emotional tributes pour in for ‘treasured’ Irish toddler after sudden death

EMOTIONAL tributes have poured in after the tragic death of an Irish toddler in Australia.

Little Maisie Elizabeth Kehoe was rushed to hospital by her parents – Limerick native Conor Kehoe and Meath mum Danielle O’Sullivan – after having a seizure at home in Sydney.

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Doctors discovered that Masie had Leigh Syndrome – a very rare neurometabolic disorder.

The tot “fought bravely all weekend” with her parents by her side before she sadly died on Monday July 8.

Devastated pals said: “Last Friday morning, July 5, 2024, Conor and Danielle’s world was turned upside down when their beautiful little girl, Maisie, had a seizure while Danielle was following her normal routine, getting ready for work here in Sydney.

“Maisie was rushed to the hospital via ambulance, and unfortunately, her condition worsened from there.

“Maisie fought bravely all weekend with Conor and Danielle by her side, but sadly, we lost her on Monday evening.

“Initially, the doctors suspected meningitis, but it has now been confirmed that Maisie had Leigh Syndrome, a very rare neurometabolic disorder.

“This is absolutely devastating for Conor and Danielle, and they face a long road to recovery.”

Friends have been raising funds for Conor and Danielle to help bring their “treasured daughter” back to Ireland for a final farewell.

Over €150,000 or $255,000 in Australian dollars has been raised in her memory.

Fundraiser organiser Sean O’Mahony said: “This GoFundMe has been set up to help ease some of the financial pressure on them during this incredibly difficult time. We all know the costs associated with such situations can be overwhelming.

“Even raising enough funds to cover their rent during this period would make a massive difference.

“Conor and Danielle also want to express their heartfelt thanks to the amazing doctors and nurses at Sydney Children’s Hospital in Randwick and the Kevin Bell trust fund, who couldn’t have been more helpful.”

Paying tribute, Maisie’s heartbroken family said: “Maisie will be lovingly remembered for the joy she brought to everyone’s life as a treasured daughter of Danielle and Conor.

“Maisie will be forever missed by the Kehoe and O’Sullivan families and friends across the world.”

A special mass will be held this week to commemorate Maisie’s “happy life” in Australia before her grieving parents bring her back to Ireland.

Sean added: “On behalf of Danielle and Conor they would like to express their heartfelt thanks and appreciation on the overwhelming support that they have received during this terrible time.

“They also wish to invite you to celebrate the short and happy life of their precious baby girl Maisie.

“A mass will be held before Maisie makes her final journey to Ireland at St Andrews Catholic Parish, Malabar on Tuesday July 16 2024 commencing at 7pm.”

Tributes poured in after news of Maisie’s death emerged.

One mourner said: “Our deepest sympathy to you all at this very sad time. Words cannot express how to console your broken hearts. May Maisie’s beautiful soul rest in peace.”

Another wrote: “Nobody can explain or understand the immense grief that the loss of a child brings.

“May all the memories you shared in her short life keep you talking and recalling stories. Please know that our small town reaches out in your time of distress. Maisie fly high with the angels and watch carefully over your family.”

To contribute towards the GoFundMe appeal, see here.