GoFundMe raises $100k in two days for family of Henry Spletter

The family of a little boy “beautiful in every way” has donated his heart after he tragically died following a medical incident at a Cairns childcare.

Cairns toddler Henry Spletter was almost two when he died at a Cairns kindergarten last week. Picture: Supplied

The family of a little boy “beautiful in every way” has donated his heart after he tragically died following a medical incident in childcare.

Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics were called to Busy Bees at Redlynch, Cairns at 9.40am on Thursday.

It’s understood Henry Spletter, 22 months, choked but was revived at Cairns hospital and eventually flown to Townsville University Hospital.

Sadly he did not survive and was declared dead on Saturday.

His parents, Aaron and Rachel Spletter, said he was a shining light to his newborn sister Aubrey.

Henry Spletter with parents Aaron and Rachel Spletter. Picture: GoFundMe

“He was very active, once he got up, you couldn’t stop him,” Mrs Spletter said.

“He was beautiful in every way and he doted on his little sister.”

Mrs Spletter thanked staff and emergency services for their efforts at the time of the incident.

“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” Ms Spletter said.

“So many people did all they could to support him until the end.”

Mrs Spletter said it was unclear what Henry choked on and investigations were ongoing.

“They managed to bring Henry back because we lost him for a period of time, but they stabilised him and brought him back,” she said.

“Unfortunately he suffered a non-survivable brain injury ... he was able to donate his heart and it was successfully transferred to another little boy or girl.”

The Busy Bees at Redlynch early learning and childcare centre. Picture: Supplied

Facing unimaginable grief a crowd-funding campaign has been set up by family friend Stuart Brown to support the family during this difficult time.

“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,” he said on the GoFundMe page.

“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.”

Rachel Spletter with her son Henry Spletter. Picture: Supplied.

In two days the appeal has raised $100,287 in an unprecedented outpouring of generosity from 937 donors.

Mr Spletter said he appreciated the support from friends, family and members of the community.

“I’ve already received so many messages of support from people,” he said.

“Looking at their names, I know they’re not all well off, but they’re contributing as much as they can, and we appreciate it.”
Mrs Spletter said the family was now focused on remembering Henry.

“It is just a matter of remembering him and celebrating him – for only 22 months, he achieved a lot,” she said.

Queensland Police Service stated the death was being treated as non-suspicious and a report would be made for the coroner.

Aaron Spletter with his son Henry Spletter. Picture: Zeb Paulger

Busy Bees Australia chief executive Phil McKenzie shared his condolences to the Spletter family.

“It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of a child, Henry Spletter, who

attended our Redlynch Centre in the Cairns region,” Mr McKenzie said.

“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the Spletter family during this incredibly difficult time.”

He said the wellbeing of all children in care was the company’s highest priority.

“The entire Busy Bees team is extremely shocked and saddened by Henry’s passing,” he said.

“Out of respect for the Spletter family and to support to our team, the Redlynch Centre was

closed on Monday.

“I would like to thank the emergency services personnel for their actions and support, and also acknowledge the quick and professional first aid response from the Centre team,” he said.

“We have been in regular contact with our families and we are grateful for their understanding during this time.”

Follow @petercarruther1

Originally published as GoFundMe raises $100k in two days for family of Henry Spletter