A baby boy who “made everyone smile” has died after battling a neurological condition throughout his short life.
One-year-old Ruben Cross, from Taunton, died at Musgrove Park Hospital on August 14 after spending around a month in end-of-life care.
Ruben was born on December 24, 2024, and diagnosed before birth with enlarged ventricles and, days later, with dystonia.
He spent long periods in hospitals in Bristol and Taunton as he faced ongoing health problems.
Ruben’s uncle, Liam Gillett, said: "Even throughout this he was always happy and cheerful and loved interacting with people.
"He made everyone smile and will be remembered and loved by his family, as well as the nurses and doctors who supported him.
"He sadly passed away on August 14 after receiving end-of-life care for around a month.
"Unfortunately he just couldn’t fight it any longer.
"His body started shutting down, but he passed peacefully and without pain.
"Ruben showed incredible strength and resilience, and his bravery was unmatched.
"He will be truly missed and loved forever."
Ruben’s parents, Bradley Cross and Jules Ellis, took significant time off work and spent a "small fortune" travelling between Taunton and Bristol to be with their son, Mr Gillett said.
Mr Gillett launched a GoFundMe page to ease the family’s financial burden. It has raised more than £4,000.
To donate, click here.
He said: "As you can imagine they have both had to take a lot of time off work and spend a small fortune travelling, staying in Bristol and eating on the go to be there for Ruben.
"This has put a huge strain on their finances and made things a struggle."
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Mr Gillett, who is registered blind and lives in the Midlands, said the fundraiser was his way of supporting the family from afar.
He said: "I decided to set up the GoFundMe page to try and do something to help in this horrible time.
"I have always been close to my brother and his girlfriend and as I live in the Midlands and I’m registered blind I couldn’t get down to see them very much so I thought I would do something from here to help them."
The family thanked everyone who supported them during this difficult time.
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