Angus Ta’avao has shared the devastating news that his eight-year-old son, Leo, has passed away.
On Tuesday, the Highlanders and All Blacks front-rower posted on social media: “We are heartbroken to share that our beautiful boy Leo has gained his angel wings. After a brief battle in PICU, Leo passed away surrounded by his loved ones.”
Leo was born with partial-trisomy-13, a genetic disorder that affects a child’s growth and development, and spent the first three months of his life in hospital.
“You have left a giant Leo sized hole in our hearts darling, we will miss you so so much. Til we meet again our baby boy,” Ta’avao added.
Ta’avao had played for the Highlanders as recently as Friday night, featuring in their upset win over the Crusaders in Dunedin.
In a 2018 interview, when Leo was just 14 months old, Ta’avao spoke about the impact his son had on him.
“If I’m having a difficult day, seeing him makes it all better,” he said at the time. “The smile he gives us, gets me. It sounds so cliche, but when I see that, it melts my heart.”
Messages of support have poured in from across the rugby community.
“Praying and thinking of you and the family uso,” wrote Ardie Savea.
“So heartbroken for you Angus. To you and your family, we send love and prayers,” added Michaela Blyde.
“Brother my heart aches for you all I’m so sorry for your loss,” said Israel Dagg.
The Highlanders also posted: “Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Kristyn and Georgie during this heartbreaking time. Rest in peace Leo.”
Photo: Kai Schwoerer/Getty Images
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