Angus Ta’avao: Former All Blacks prop shares devastating news about eight-year-old son Leo
Former All Blacks prop Angus Ta’avao has shared the devastating news that his young son, Leo, has died.
Former All Blacks prop Angus Ta’avao has shared the devastating news that his young son, Leo, has died.
Leo was born with a rare genetic disorder, partial trisomy 13, a chromosome condition that can cause serious health and developmental complications. He spent the first three months of his life in hospital receiving specialist care.
In an emotional statement posted to social media, Ta’avao, who represented the New Zealand national rugby union team in 22 Tests, revealed Leo had passed away following a “battle” in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“We are heartbroken to share that our beautiful boy Leo has gained his angel wings,” Ta’avao said.
“After a brief battle in PICU, Leo passed away surrounded by his loved ones.
“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.”
Tributes and messages of support quickly flowed in from across the rugby community and beyond.
“Praying and thinking of you and the family, uso,” All Blacks vice-captain Ardie Savea said.
Ta’avao spoke about the joy his son brought to his life, in a 2018 interview with Stuff.
“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 see that, it melts my heart. He’s just a special part of our life.”
“Leo the lion. We called him Leo because he has a big heart and he is so brave.”
Tributes poured in from across New Zealand’s rugby community following the heartbreaking news.
Fellow New Zealand star Ardie Savea wrote: “Praying and thinking of you and the family uso.”
Former All Blacks fullback Israel Dagg said, “Brother, my heart aches for you all. I’m so sorry for your loss.”
Teammate and fellow prop Tamaiti Williams sent “love and prayers to you brother”.
Radio host Bryce Casey added, “Ah, this is beyond any words to match here from us. I’m super sorry for you guys’ loss. Much love to you all and Leo.”
Speaking to Stuff in 2018, Ta’avao said then-14-month-old Leo “melts my heart”. He said, “If I’m having a difficult day, seeing him makes it all better. The smile he gives us, gets me. It sounds so cliché, but when I see that, it melts my heart. He’s just a special part of our life.”
He added: “Leo the lion. We called him Leo because he has a big heart and he is so brave.”
