A Napier family and school community are grieving a “much-loved” student, who died after a “routine flu” escalated to a fight for his life.
Mateo Deveraturda, 11, was admitted to Starship Hospital two weeks ago after a “routine flu” became much more serious.
In a post on a Givealittle page, Mateo’s family said the “once vibrant, energetic child” was placed into an induced coma, and was fighting multiple organ failure.
They said he had been in the PICU, under 24-hour care.
In a post to Givealittle on June 24, Deveraturda’s family said his condition had “significantly declined”.
“He is no longer responding to treatment, and dialysis is no longer working for him.
“After many difficult conversations and with heavy hearts, his doctors, nurses, and family have made the hard decision to let Mateo rest, allowing him to choose when he himself is to tired and ready to leave earth.
“Mateo is now being allowed to pass peacefully, surrounded by his family and loved ones.”
His school, St Patrick’s School, stated on Facebook today that the 11-year-old died while in hospital, “surrounded by love and care”.
The school asked the community to pray for Mateo’s family, friends, and “all those who loved him”.
“This is a time to come together, to support one another, and to show compassion.”
