Richard Engel announced on social media that his 6-year-old son Henry Engel has died after an aggressive battle with Rett syndrome, a rare brain disorder. “He had the softest blue eyes, an easy smile and a contagious giggle,” NBC news correspondent wrote on Twitter. Henry’s close friend, Dr. Huda Zoghbi, shared many of his most fond memories with her. “His loving and endearing smile, and the way he connected with his eyes, stole my heart from the time I met him,”She wrote in Statement. “We will continue to push as hard as possible to develop treatments. This is how we will honor his life.”
Henry died two months ago. Richard, his father, revealed that Henry was in worsening health. “His condition progressed and he’s developed dystonia: uncontrolled shaking/ stiffness,” Richard Tweet. Henry required additional care, and was admitted to hospital for six weeks.
Richard also announced Twitter that researches are working to find a cure for Rett syndrome and are using Henry’s cells in the process.