A heartbroken family from the Midlands is mourning the sudden loss of their eight-month-old baby boy, remembered as the happiest and most smiling child.
A brave battle with a rare condition
Wilfred 'Ernie' Wormington was born on March 12 at Russells Hall Hospital in Dudley. From birth, he was diagnosed with Hirschsprung's disease, a rare condition that prevents nerve cells forming in parts of the bowel, leading to severe blockages.
Despite undergoing repeated hospital treatments for the illness, his mother, Jessica Wormington, 27, said he remained a joyful baby. "He was the happiest baby, he was always smiling," she shared. "He would dance to dancing fruits on YouTube. His siblings loved him."
A sudden and devastating loss
Wilfred's fight ended unexpectedly on November 30. His death has left his parents, Jessica and Aaron, 33, and his six young siblings in profound shock. The children are Reuben, ten, Matilda, nine, Florence, seven, Rupert, six, Rufus, four, and three-year-old Albert.
"We are in shock because his death was so unexpected, we are heartbroken," Jessica stated. The family has expressed immense gratitude for the care provided by Birmingham Children's Hospital. "They have been phenomenal to him and his siblings," Jessica said. "The staff were like family."
Community support in a time of grief
A family friend has launched a GoFundMe appeal to help the grieving family. The fundraiser has two primary goals: to cover the costs of Wilfred's funeral and to ensure his six brothers and sisters can still experience a magical Christmas despite the tragedy.
The appeal page reads: "On Sunday, November 30, our beautiful Wilfred Ernie, unexpectedly passed away at eight months. The family are completely heartbroken, their world has been turned upside down." It adds that Wilfred was "the final piece of their puzzle."
The condition that Wilfred battled also affects two of his brothers, Albert and Rufus, highlighting the ongoing challenges the family faces. The community is now being asked to rally around them as they navigate this unimaginable loss and plan a fitting farewell for their beloved baby boy.
