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The rugby world is mourning alongside former All Blacks prop Angus Ta’avao, who has shared the heartbreaking news of his young son Leo’s passing. Leo, who battled a genetic disorder throughout his life, died after a brief stay in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), surrounded by his family.
Ta’avao, currently playing for the Highlanders in Super Rugby, announced the news on social media, expressing the profound grief felt by his family. The loss has resonated deeply within the New Zealand rugby community and beyond, prompting an outpouring of support for the grieving father and his family. This tragedy comes just days after Ta’avao played a key role in the Highlanders’ 25-23 victory over the Crusaders on Friday night, a match where he even scored a attempt, as reported by Nine.com.au.
“We are heartbroken to share that our beautiful boy Leo has gained his angel wings,” Ta’avao wrote in a moving social media post. “After a brief battle in PICU, Leo passed away surrounded by his loved ones.” The announcement highlights the incredibly difficult journey the family has faced, as Leo was born with partial trisomy-13, a genetic disorder that impacts growth and development. He spent the first three months of his life in hospital, according to 1News.
Leo’s Inspiring Impact
Despite the challenges presented by his condition, Leo had a profound impact on his father’s life. In a 2018 interview with Stuff, when Leo was just 14 months classic, Ta’avao spoke of his son as a source of strength and inspiration. “If I’m having a difficult day, seeing him makes it all better,” Ta’avao said. “The smile he gives us, gets me. It sounds so cliché, but when I witness that, it melts my heart.” This sentiment underscores the deep bond between father and son, and the joy Leo brought to his family despite his health struggles.
The news of Leo’s passing has been met with an outpouring of support from the rugby community. All Blacks vice-captain Ardie Savea offered his condolences, writing “Praying and thinking of you and the family, uso,” demonstrating the close-knit nature of the team and the widespread respect for Ta’avao. The Highlanders also posted a message of support, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Kristyn and Georgie during this heartbreaking time. Rest in peace Leo,” as reported by Stuff.co.nz.
A Life Cut Short
Leo’s battle with partial trisomy-13 was a long one. The genetic disorder, which can cause developmental and physical delays, often carries a limited life expectancy. According to Nine.com.au, babies born with trisomy-13 typically have a life expectancy of barely a year, making Leo’s nine years a testament to his strength and the dedication of his family and medical team.
Ta’avao’s journey as a professional rugby player has taken him from the Chiefs and Blues to the Highlanders, with 23 appearances for the All Blacks. He continues to balance the demands of his career with the responsibilities of family life, and now, with navigating this immense loss. The Highlanders’ recent Super Rugby Pacific season opener against the Crusaders, where Ta’avao scored a try, now carries a bittersweet weight in light of this tragic news.
As the rugby community rallies around Angus Ta’avao and his family, the focus shifts to providing them with the space and support they need to grieve. The coming weeks will undoubtedly be difficult, but the outpouring of love and condolences offers a compact measure of comfort during this incredibly painful time.
We extend our deepest sympathies to the Ta’avao family. Please share your condolences and support in the comments below.
