CJ

C.J. (Christopher John) McCann

Roscommon, Ireland

January 17, 2022 - October 15, 2023

CJ (Christopher John) was born on January 17th, 2022, and it was magic. When he was 9 months old, he was diagnosed with ATRT, and after surgery and chemo appeared to be doing well, but a scan in June 2023 showed small growth. We started maintenance chemo, but sadly, in August, further growth was detected, and we were told we had limited time with our beautiful boy.

CJ had an incredible love of life and a constant desire to smile and giggle. He had a unique capacity to draw a room and attract attention with that smile. Even during chemo, or on his worst days, he would bounce back, smiling as soon as he could. It was incredible to watch his strength at such a young age during that time; we are so proud of that fight he had to live every day.

He had a few favourite toys, depending on where he was; in hospital, he loved the stethoscope (the real one only), and keys, and he had a hammer and balls toy that he adored and had great fun with. Most of all, he loved people. Despite his desire to always be in Mammy or Daddy's arms, he was so social and wanted to walk the ward, or engage strangers, or play with his sisters and cousins. He simply loved life, and he has left us with so many lessons on how to live our lives. 

We feel so blessed and proud to have been part of his journey; we love and miss him dearly, but feel his presence every day. "If love could have saved him, he would have lived forever.”