'Our hearts are broken' - Little boy dies of same illness as brother amid tributes

Tributes have been paid this week after the death of young Kerry boy Oisín O'Sullivan who died of the same illness as he older brother.

Described as "a happy, fun loving little boy," Oisín passed away "peacefully at home and in the arms of his heartbroken family" last Tuesday, May 13, 12 years after his brother Evan. 

A GoFundMe page launched for the Kenmare tot and his family last year explained that Oisin, who is the youngest child of parents Michael and Joanne O'Sullivan, had been "diagnosed with an illness that is sadly all too familiar to Michael and Joanne."

It read: "Oisín's older brother Evan passed away in 2013 from this illness. At that time Michael and Joanne spent many months in and out of hospital with Evan. We, the family and friends, can remember those months and the time they dedicated to Evan's needs."

Family and friends wanted to help Oisín and his parents and raised almost €65,000 for treatment. 

Little Oisín's RIP.ie death notice says he was the "much loved and adored son of Michael and Joanne, cherished brother of Érin and Shannon, beloved grandson of John, Mary and Gretta."

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It added that he was predeceased by his brother Evan, uncle Philip and grandfather Denis and would be "sadly missed and dearly loved by his family, aunts, uncles, godparents, cousins and his many friends."

Hundreds of tributes were paid to Oisín and condolences sent to his parents. One read: "Thinking of Michael, Joanne, Erin, Shannon, and all the O'Sullivan family with love and sympathy on the heartbreaking loss of Oisín. May he be at peace now with his brother Evan, lighting up the sky together with their smiles. Holding you all in our hearts during this incredibly difficult time."

Another wrote: "Michael, Joanne, Erin, Shannon and all the family, we are thinking of you all. Oisin was a beautiful young boy and we are honoured to have known him. Rest In Peace with your big brother."

A third message read: "Heartfelt sympathy Joanne, Michael, Erin, Shannon and all your family on Oisin's leaving. No greater loss than the death of our children. Please accept my prayers and deepest condolences. A beautiful little angel, lent for such a short while."

Oisín's funeral took place on Thursday morning, May 15.