Thursday 3 September 2015

Goodbye


His journey is over.

Dominic Sean Rooney took his last breath at 11:45 a.m. ET this morning at the Arnold Palmer Children's Hospital in Orlando. He was two.

He slept on his dad's chest all night, then spent some time with his mom, but they both knew he was fading.

He got in one last session of music therapy, though he was asleep for it.

Mickey Mouse came to see him, but didn't get to the room because Dom was on his way out.

Thanks to staff here he was calm and at peace when he passed, covered in one of dozens of blankets his grandma made him. Trish and Sean cried like they've never cried before, knowing but never really believing this had to happen.

They told him how many people were thinking of him and how much love he's brought in to this world. And how much more love will be shown because of him.

One friend wisely noted that it's as if Dom wanted to spend his last days just with his mom and dad, in the happiest place he could find. So they went to Disneyworld Monday, and on Tuesday he crashed.

It was the leukemia that killed him, filling up his lungs with cancerous cells that made it impossible to breathe. But he will also live on, through silent thumbs up's, fundraisers in his name to give back to the many people and organizations that supported him, and forever in our hearts.

He was told Dec. 24, 2014 the cancer would kill him in weeks. It took weeks — 36 of them — for that to happen. He inspired so many people and his parents believe he will continue to inspire so many more.

Due to complications arising from being out of the country he and his parents won't likely come home for another week. A celebration of his life will be planned in the meantime.

In lieu of flowers or other gifts the family asks for donations to be made in Dominic's name through the Extra Life charity (http://www.extra-life.org/team/dominicstrong) to the Alberta Children's Hospital, or to the charity Helping Families Handle cancer (http://helpingfamilieshandlecancer.com).

126 comments:

  1. I have no words. My heart is broken for your family. Thank you for sharing Dominic's story and life.

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  2. Peace and Love to all of you.. Soar with the angels baby Dominic..

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  3. I dont hace the right words but I can only pray that God heal your heart. You had a Champion in your life. He was a Warrior. God bless your family. 👣👣

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  4. Darcey Swennumson3 September 2015 at 13:08

    Sobbing. No words can convey the depth of my sorrow for you guys, just as mere words aren't enough to describe the incredible soul Dom is. He will indeed live on forever.

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  5. I've been following Dominic's Journey through my niece, Carie Stock. My heart aches on the loss of your Brave Warrior. Hold each other close. <3
    With Love from Sheri, Mom to AML Warrior, Mason.

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  6. Your son has brought more smiles, hope and strength to everyone around the world more then he will ever know.I have followed every single post laughed and cried.His little smile warmed my heart knowing he was a trooper through this all. You as parents have taught me strength patience and understanding. I pray you find peace in the days ahead.He will be remembered by many rest easy dominic.you will always hold a place in my heart.

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  7. There are no words. My thoughts and prayers go up to Dom and remain on earth with you as you live without him. May God bless you all!!!

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  8. Very very sorry to hear of Dom's passing. Been thinking about you guys non stop, day and night. You are an incredible family and know that you have so many people here for you. All I see when I think of Dom is an incredibly brave little boy with an amazing smile.

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  9. Aw, man, I'm so sorry. I lost my son when he was six months old. There is no pain like that. Cherish your memories. That's what got me through it.

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  10. I too didn't believe this day would actually come. Much love you Sean and Trish in these days. You are surrounded by love and have all my support.

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  11. Sean – when this blog first started up I couldn’t bring myself to read these posts. With a newborn of my own just arrived I couldn’t and didn’t want to hear about this sort of thing.

    However it wasn’t long before the post and videos took hold and it has been a steady stream of tears ever since. Your son is the shining example of perseverance while Trish’s and your example how to be loving parents is something I will continue to strive for. I am so very glad your young Prince made it to the Magic Kingdom for a few days to meet Mickey. I am so very mad at cancer.

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  12. Breaks my heart to read this - sending love and prayers to the family.

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  13. My heart breaks for mom.dad and all his family and friends. What a brave little soul he has been through all this....spreading love throughout this big old world.Hold all the memories of Dominic close to your hearts in this troubled time,my thoughts and prayers are with you all.

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  14. I cannot begin to express how very sorry I am to hear of Dom's passing. Thank you for sharing his life with us. He made us smile and brightened our days. I can only imagine what he did to those who knew him personally. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during incredibly difficult time.

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  15. I'm so sorry. I can't imagine what this is like. My thought's and prayers are with you both.

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  16. Dominic, what a journey you have had. You were a true champion, fighting an evil that no one should even have to do. You have two amazing parents that will never forget you. You have family that loves you incredibly and friends and strangers. Your life, although short has meaning, purpose and has provided direction for alot of people, now and forever. The health care system, other parents fighting this same cruel disease and just us average folk have learned so much from you. That's pretty cool for a wee guy not even 3. Please let your mommy and daddy know to keep up this blog for as long as it takes, as we are all standing here ready to help in whatever way we can, if it's just eyes to read, comments to soothe, anything, we are all standing, with tears in our eyes. We are so proud of Dominic, he did well, he was strong, he was good. May your journey back to Canada go smoothly as can be given the situation being so far away and out of country. Love surrounds you. ♥

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    1. That was very well said & extremely true, thank you for saying what I was feeling.

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    2. I feel the same way. I didn't know you but I am crying now, as I was hoping for a miracle for your family. But you have had a miracle - Dom. He'll be with you, and with us, forever.

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  17. So sad and so sorry...I was praying for a miracle.

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  18. So sorry to hear about Doms passing.... he is loved and will be remembered by all..... he had the most amazing parents.... think of both Sea and Trish

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  19. Thoughts, prayers and hugs to you and Trish in Florida. You are in SO many people's thoughts at this time. The whole city of Calgary is rooting for you, giving you strength and courage, at a time where you have been asked of the biggest task in life, to go through this. May God Bless all of you. Dom in his short time inspired a lot, a lot of people, and his inspiration will absolutely go on. A special boy, with special parents. Much love

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  21. So sorry to hear of your very sad loss. May gentle Jesus hold him forever in his arms and also keep his healing arms around you both to heal your breaking arms. God bless.

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  22. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Know that Dom is at peace now, no more suffering.

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  23. I have been following Dominic's story through my good friend, Tamara. My heart is breaking today for the pain I know you are experiencing. Please know that his life has touched so many. Having never met him, I will continue to think of his strength and courage and the immeasurable blessing he was to you as parents and to your entire community. You have my thoughts and prayers as you journey through this unimaginable time. Rest well, Dominic. For all of the love, smiles, and astounding courage you shared, you have left the world a better place than you found it. May we all aspire to a similar legacy.

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  24. My sincere condolences go out to both of you and your family. My own heart was breaking just reading the words you so beautifully wrote in remembrance of Dominic. You are both amazing parents and Dominic was and still is a true inspiration to everyone. Thank you for sharing your story. God bless.

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  25. I do not know you, but have followed Dominic's incredibly courageous journey for a while. I pray that you find peace and comfort during this time. Your story has made me try to treasure every day with my children. God bless your sweet family.

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  26. I'm so very sorry for your loss. Keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for sharing your beautiful son's inspiring and courageous life with all of us. Take gentle care. Hugs!

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  27. My heart and prayers go out to you both in your time of need. May God grant you peace and keep your little boy until you meet again.

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  28. I am so very sorry for your loss. There are no words, and I pray you can find peace and comfort during this time. Thank you for sharing your story as many have followed in your journey. God bless your family.

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  29. I am so very sorry for your loss. There are no words, and I pray you can find peace and comfort during this time. Thank you for sharing your story as many have followed in your journey. God bless your family.

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  30. So sorry to hear about Doms passing.... he is loved and will be remembered by all..... he had the most amazing parents.... think of both Sea and Trish

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  31. Although you do not know me, I have been following your journey with your son and his illness. I wish there were words that I could say, to take this pain away - but in reality, there are none <3.

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  32. Sincerest sympathies. With a heavy heart I share your sorrow, and only imagine the immense loss you feel. One part of the journey is over. Dom will live on in many ways as you walk the next part of your journey and inspire others with your story. May you get home sooner than expected and be surrounded by family and friends who love and support you.

    “Words, however kind, can't mend your heartache, but those who care and share your loss wish you comfort and peace of mind. May you find strength
    in the love of family and in the warm embrace of friends.” (unknown)

    Many hugs,
    Love Lorna

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  33. There are no words to describe your loss. Following this journey on line it was clear Dom was such a little fighter. Your strength throughout this journey has been inspiring and I admire you very much for opening up and sharing your thoughts and feelings as you guys battled this horrible disease.

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  34. I am so very sorry to hear of Dom's passing. Keeping both of you in our thoughts and prayers. And thank you for sharing his journey with us. You all have been a huge inspiration. Lots of love

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  35. So sorry to hear Sean and Trish. Take peace in knowing your little hero is in a better place now. The title picture on this blog of Dom is so precious and so full of love, fun and life... hold on to that. Peace and love to you guys. God bless.

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  36. Godspeed Dominic.

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  37. This is so heartbreaking. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Thank you for sharing the journey of your beautiful young boy. He truly is an inspiration.

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  38. My heart goes out to your family. Dominic touched so many lives whether they had the pleasure of meeting him or not. Thank you to you for sharing your journey with us. Much love.

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  39. My heart breaks! I've shed many tears the last 24hrs for a family I've never known, a child I've never met and will never get the pleasure to meet. I'm devastated for these parents, who have had this amazing, strong, little boy stolen from them. I'm devastated for the little boy, who had been dealt such a crappy hand at life but still powered through it. It's not fair that kids have to suffer such things. If only love was enough, because this little boy was loved (virtually too) but cancer sucks, it doesn't care and that's just not right!

    I hope he's pain free and enjoying life the way a little boy should & will watch over his parents and one day, run to them when they are joined again.

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  40. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time.

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  41. So sorry for the loss of your brave warrior, Dominic. He will never be forgotten. I can't tell you how many times while reading your blog, I thought to myself, how much of a warrior he truly is. I don't think any adult could put a smile on their face or give a thumbs up like Dom did when he was in pain. But Dom did. I will never look at the "thumbs up" signal the same again. Thank you so much for sharing his journey with us. May you and Trish find peace and feel the love of not only family and friends but from complete strangers who are sending you both love and hugs from afar.

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  42. i am so very sad to read this update, and moreso that you have lost your shining star. Dom was a trooper throughout this entire journey, and was guided by two amazing parents that showed him what true love is. The scale of your loss is unimaginable. Wishing you peace, and strength in the days ahead, please know you have so much support and a network eager to help you in whatever way possible.

    thank you for sharing your journey with us. i wish it had been a different outcome.

    "if there ever comes a day when we can't be together, keep me in your heart, and i'll stay there forever- Winnie the Pooh"

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  43. Dear Sean and Trish,
    I am so sorry. I remember so vividly seeing you in the hallway at the Children's hospital and I wish we could have been there for you in the same way. A familiar face, even if not very familiar. I am sorry you know this loss. Please let us know if you need anything or just want to hang out.
    Love,
    Craig and Shareen

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  44. I am so sorry for your loss! Thinking of you! Hugs!!

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  45. We 1st meet at a Tweet and Geek Lunch-on; The Excitement you had while waiting for Dominic's arrival was infectious. Learning of his condition was heartbreaking, but time and time again we bare witness fo his willingness to stay in our world.

    For a time and up to this moment, I truly believe Dominic would overcome this "event"

    Dominic was your son, but he is and will still be 'My inspiration' giving me the courage to overcome my own problems and shortfalls..

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  46. May you find peace knowing that Dom has. May you find joy knowing what you had. My heart is heavy for your family.

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  47. So, so, so sorry. Words cannot describe.
    Dana

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  48. Every parents worst nightmare.
    We are so sorry, and send you guys love & strength - now and always.
    With love, in Edmonton. <3

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  49. So sorry and heartbroken for you both. xxxxxxxxx

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  50. I can't believe it actually happened. I'm so sorry for Dom's family. May God guide and console you all during such a difficult time.
    God bless!
    Ann

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  51. My sincere condolences. Dom, thanks for showing us how to be brave and to make the best of a short life. Sean and Trish, thanks so much for sharing this journey. I've learned many lessons from you about how to be good, and just how good people really are.

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  52. Sincerest sympathies Sean and Trish. I will keep a good thought for you during this time.

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  53. enjoy your wings little man, you have earned them...

    love, thoughts and prayers for mom and dad at this heartbreaking time, there are no words that can make any of this feel ok, just know you have many people sending you light and love...

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  54. There are no words that will make it better or ease your pain just know many people thoughts are with you .Heaven gained a little angel today .... and his star in the skys will shine bright ...

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  55. Thank you for sharing this journey with us. I know your candidly honest words have touched the hearts of many parents who have children in heaven. May the peace that surpasses all understanding find you and hold you in this terrible time. God bless you Sean and Trish .

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  56. Dominic brought so much love to this world - all of which he left behind. Thank you for sharing your sweet, sweet boy with us.
    Justine xoxo

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  57. So sorry for your loss. I cant imagine...

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  58. From the east coast to the west coast he had people praying for him. This little boy gave it his all and his mom and dad did also. You both were introduced to a wonderful group of people ( Friends of Riley Mercer)who will always be there for you. We will continue to pray for you both and Dominic. God Bless

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  59. My heart weeps for your loss. Please know that many of us will always remember him and he touched so many lives. Thank you little Dominic for making this world a better place.

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  60. I am so very sorry for your family's loss.

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  61. Thank you for sharing your journey. You have a way with words that we all have felt right there with you - the highs, the lows. We all fell in love with Dom and your family and your cathartic sharing has helped many other as well. May you family find peace - God Bless

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  62. I am so sorry to hear this. My heart breaks for all of you.

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  63. So sorry to hear this Sean and Trish. I have read your blog with much interest since you started it, and I was inspired by your little guy. Such a fighter, and full of smiles too. I think you're both awesome parents. Please accept my condolences.

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  64. I am so sorry for you loss. Dom has been in my thoughts and prayers all week. I have followed your journey and he has impacted my life and will not be forgotten. My heart breaks for your family.

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  65. I'm so sorry to hear this and I'm sorry for all that you've had to go through. Thinking of you. <3

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  66. I am so sorry to hear this. My heart is breaking for your family. I don't even have words to describe how sorry I am for your loss. I can only say that Dominic was such a brave little guy, and he fought a hard battle. Dominic ' s smile will forever leave an imprint on the hearts of those who knew him. (Even those of us who didn't know him). My most sincere condolences. ❤

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  67. "What we have once enjoyed, we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes part of us" Dominic Your courage and infectious smile will never be forgotten. Wrap your arms around your mommy and daddy. RIP Little one

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  68. Sean and Trish, I hope you feel the love and support from your community and parents around the world. We stand with you in your grief and I hope you find some comfort and peace. Bless you and sweet Dom.

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  69. God Bless you during this difficult time!

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  70. I am so sorry. I love you guys.

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  71. My heart is with you. What a lucky little boy he was, to have such wonderful, loving parents. You gave him all the best, and he knows that.

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  72. I'm so very sorry for your loss. Truly heart breaking.

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  73. Not a thing I can say that will make any difference but you are all loved by so many people you don't even know. My grandmother passed last night. If there is a heaven I hope she was there to greet him and help him pass safely.

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  74. hi you awesome people there is so much I can write but I will keep it short. I know the pain u feel as I lost a nephew at 7 mos. all I can say is keep strong and know he is with God . He will always be with you in ur memories and ur hearts. you are wonderful people and Dom will live on thru you. God Bless and much love to u and urs!!!!!!!!

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  75. Heartbreaking. Devastating. Overwhelming. I have come to love your son as my own family. I am having a hard time controlling my grief; I cannot fathom yours. Dominic and his story have changed my life forever. Thank you for sharing your beautiful little boy with us. I will never forget him.

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  76. I am so sorry for your incredible loss. There are no words. God bless you and your family. Know your sweet boy is no longer suffering, and he will always be watching over you.

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  77. My heart is so heavy for you and your wife. Your son was very special and you will carry him in your hearts forever. God bless you and give you courage and strength through this difficult time.

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  78. I am very sorry for your loss. I happened across your blog through a random Twitter link and was incredibly moved by your families strength and love in sharing this journey with others. My heart goes out to you both.

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  79. I am so sorry to hear about your loss.... I know how devastated you both are right now and just how absolutely terrible this is... Nothing I or anyone says can make you feel better right now. Maybe one day, if you'd like to get together, you can email me. Candace@teakany.com. We lost our son kaidan to infant leukemia 8 years ago at the Alberta children's hospital. We lived there for a year and it was so hard to leave our hospital family and our son behind, I didn't know how we'd ever do it. Just wanted to you know that your writing has been so heartfelt and beautiful, all along. You shared your story so openly and we all appreciated your vulnerability. Thank you for sharing your sons journey with us all. Sending you healing love. Candace

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  80. I am so so sorry for your loss. This is the greatest loss that a parent can endure and there are no word at this time that will make it any easier. Wishing you both a new found strength as you cope with the loss of your little angel.

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  81. Cheryl,Gordon,Jacinta and Reese Specht3 September 2015 at 20:53

    Wishing you our deepest condolences,may you cherish all of the great memories and our prayers and thoughts are with you!!!

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  82. My heart is broken for you. Sending love. The Gray Family

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  84. I've followed Dominic's journey through a friend's Facebook postings. I've never met Dom, nor his family, and yet the grief that I experienced since learning of his passing has overwhelmed me. Thank you for sharing your journey. I hope the love and support of those who crossed paths with Dom, be it in person or via blog, help heal your hearts.

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  85. Prayers and thoughts through this most difficult time.

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  86. Please know that your little man has left teeny footprints on more hearts than you will ever know. I hope you all can find peace knowing his pain is over now and that wherever he is, his spirit lives on with every person he touched in his short time on this earth. Dom will be remembered by all of those whom he inspired, whether they were lucking enough to meet him or not. What an amazing little guy.
    Thinking of you <3
    Tarah

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  87. Sean and Trish... I am so sad for you. Keeping your family in prayers. Over the last year I have really come to be attached to him. And loved hearing about his adventures. I am sorry you lost such a beautiful child... but thankful he is not suffering. I will make a donation in his name. hugs!

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  88. I never thought I could love someone I never met. Thank you Dominic. Your strength has inspired a strength and love in me that I didn't know I had... and I am forever changed because of you.

    Something tells me that I am not the only one.

    I hope to see your beautiful face again in that next place...you beautiful, perfect little soul.

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  89. I wrote a poem a long time ago for someone I lost...I hope it brings you comfort...rest now little one.

    An Angel's Guarantee

    I know a place where you can go
    When the battle stops and the wind begins to blow.
    I know a place where you can be set free.
    Just open your heart, take my hand, come with me.
    And don't you worry, there's nothing to fear.
    As long as you need me, I'll be here.

    I'm right here beside you, there's nothing to fear.
    I'm taking you to Heaven, and the way is perfectly clear.
    There's Somebody up above, who's filled with everlasting love,
    And He's waiting patiently for you to see
    That His love is there for you unconditionally.
    If all you needed was a friend, you'll never be alone again.
    The love you'll find will last an eternity.
    Trust me, my child, this is an Angel's guarantee.

    I feel the love inside your heart,
    Come with me, we shall make a brand new start.
    I see the hope shining in your eyes.
    Come with me, together we'll touch the sky.
    And don't you worry, there's nothing to fear.
    As long as you need me, I'll be here.

    I'm right here beside you, there's nothing to fear.
    I'm taking you to Heaven, and the way is perfectly clear.
    There's Somebody up above, who's filled with everlasting love,
    And He's waiting patiently for you to see
    That His love is there for you unconditionally.
    If all you needed was a friend, you'll never be alone again.
    The love you'll find will last an eternity.
    Trust me, my child, this is an Angel's guarantee.

    Oh, I know it's hard to leave your family,
    You fear this is the end.
    But take me at my word, my child,
    In time, you'll see them again.

    I'm right here beside you, there's nothing to fear.
    I'm taking you to Heaven, and the way is perfectly clear.
    There's Somebody up above, who's filled with everlasting love,
    And He's waiting patiently for you to see
    That His love is there for you unconditionally.
    If all you needed was a friend, you'll never be alone again.
    The love you'll find will last an eternity.
    Trust me, my child, this is an Angel's guarantee.

    Trust me, my child, this is an Angel's guarantee.

    By Angela Austin angelaaustin@shaw.ca

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    1. What a wonderful heartfelt poem. Thank you for posting it. God bless you.

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  90. I know no words can help. Nothing can help at a time like this. My heart has been broken all day since receiving Greg's message that Dom had earned his Angel Wings. After following Dominic's journey via your blog, I know a piece of my heart will always be held by your wee boy. I am a Mom to a 9 year old & he's my entire life, so I can't imagine what you've all been through. I pray for your healing through this difficult time, but I hope you know that your son was amazing and in such a short life he touched so many. Dom is healed now, and he's running, laughing, playing, skipping, smiling, swimming, dancing & giving big thumbs up. Until you & Trish, Greg & Erin, and your entire family meets him again, know you are held close in the hearts of so many. You're brave & strong - continue to lead the way in helping find a cure for this horrendous disease. xo

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  91. My heart breaks for you,your family and friends. What a lucky little guy to have you as his parents and what a blessing it was to have him for the two years. He picked you for a reason.��

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  92. Dominic, I will forever hold you in my heart. You will continue to be an inspiration to me, you approached life with a smile that melts hearts and a thumbs up that warmed the hearts of all of us. Trish and Sean, there are no words...we will continue to take this journey with you - sending you love and strength. Dom, I'm looking up, giving you a big smile and a thumbs up!! XOXO. Donna

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  94. I feel so utterly sad for you and Trish. Please find comfort in all the love and support that is being sent your way through all of these messages, thoughts and prayers. Dominic has made an everlasting imprint on so many hearts

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  95. I am so heavy with grief for you both... Your words have brought many tears tonight, as this was the first time I had read about Dom...I can't express how sorry I am for Dom having to endure cancer and for you both. But thank goodness he had parents who are so loving and cuddly with him... I will think of him often, especially, when I look at my little one (as a new mom I now see my daughter in every child...). I will never forget him (his story is such a touching one) and will donate to his charity.

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  96. I can't stop crying for your loss. My deepest sympathies.

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  97. Sean and Trish,
    I am so sorry for your loss. Although I don't know you, like so many others, I've followed your blog since the beginning and felt such emotion for your sweet Dominic and for your family. Reading the posts made me laugh, and they made me cry, but most of all they gave new meaning to my life. I learned so much from your warrior of a son who was braver than brave and showed an incredible zest for life and love for his family. I learned even more from his ever-strong parents, who persevered around every twist and turn, and most of all loved that little boy immensely. As a parent of young children myself, it has taught me what's truly important in life and has given me a whole new appreciation for my family.
    I am heartbroken for your loss. Dominic's life was clearly cut far too short but I hope you know how much joy you provided that little boy and what amazing parents you were to him. I also hope that some peace comes in knowing that he is no longer suffering.
    In the days to come, my hope is that you will be able to draw some comfort and healing from the memories of all the many happy days you've had with Dominic, from the simple things that would make him laugh and smile, to the new experiences that provided pure joy and wonder, including those first couple of days of magic in Orlando/Disney.
    There will always be a special place in my heart for Dominic and the two of you. I hope the love that surrounds you will help you through this and please know you will continue to be in all of our thoughts and prayers.
    Kate

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  98. Dear Rooney family, we are so sorry for the loss of you little man Dominic. We are Amanda Crawfords parents and have been following your blog. Many times I have sat at my computer and cried tears reading your words trying to describe what was happening to him and you all as a family too. We will never understand, but we can certainly empathize with you through your well written account of the events for lack of a better word, we were able to somewhat grasp the hardships of the illness and the reality of the outcome. Love to you all and hoping with time you will remember the good times more than the bad and also the two of you will hold fast together! Joanne and Willie Crawford

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  99. Thank you for the gift of bringing your beautiful little boy into this world. I know you had no idea what was coming, but you faced this excruciating challenge head on and with so much love.
    You were incredibly brave to write publicly about your journey - and please know your words have made a huge impact that ripples far and wide. Personally, your blog has given me a deeper insight into my own family as we dealt with the loss of my sister to leukemia.
    Your words and your photos will stay with me for a very long time. There is so much love in everything you did for Dom and for each other. Thank you for bringing Dom's beautiful spirit into the world. I will never forget his “thumbs up” right to the end. Shine on, beautiful Dom.

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  100. Sean and Trish
    THANK YOU for allowing all of us to share your gorgeous boy, his earthly is over but now he is in heaven and pain free, he will always be around to guide you both. You are amazing parent and I'm sure he was so proud to be your son. I'm so heart broken reading of his passing. Tears streaming down my face thinking of his gorgeous face. Love strength and prayer coming your way . RIP Dominic ����������

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  101. Sean and Trish,
    I am so sorry for your loss of your son. I also don't know you but I have friends that know you and I have followed your blog. Your words about your son and his struggle touched my heart. It is very evident how much you both loved him and how you gave him so much joy in his life.
    I know there are no words that can help you in the pain that you are in now, but I too lost a baby at only 3 days old and that was 18 years ago. I was overcome with grief and no one really knew what to say and I didn't really know what to say back. But at the time, I talked to a grief counsellor and to this day I remember one thing she said that has stuck with me. She told me a story of an old lady in her eighties who was talking about her baby who had died. She said it doesn't matter how much time passes, you will never forget your child or the pain you have. She thought of her baby that died every day for her whole life. Time makes it easier not to cry at every thought and in time you can recall your stories and they will bring a smile to your face instead of tears to your eyes. It somehow comforted me to know that my child would not be forgotten and I still consider her as one of my children when people ask me how many kids I have. He is your miracle baby and you are and will always be a mommy and daddy to Dom.

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  102. I have young boys of my own and can't imagine your pain! I offer prayer and sympathy and can tell that your son was a huge inspiration to my family and I. God Bless and watch over your little Angel and your family in these difficult times! Love, Bulls Club

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  103. Rest in Peace Darling Dominic and watch over Mom and Dad. You have certainly earned your angel wings. My sympathies to the family at this sad and difficult time.

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  104. I'm so sorry. I've been following your journey through my friend Tamara and your blog. There are no words sufficient for this kind of devastation. I'm so sorry.

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  105. God looked around his garden
    And saw that he had space
    For someone oh so precious
    Who deserved a special place
    He knew this child was made with love
    And pure in every way
    And he realized he caused heartache
    When he took your son away
    So immediately he gave him
    Beautiful winds so he could fly
    And although you cannot see him
    He's right there up in the sky.
    So when you see the brightest star
    Each and every night
    you will know it's your son's smile
    Sending out eternal light
    For now your little angel
    Will watch down from heaven above
    And you will always be surrounded
    By your little angel's love.

    xx you are all so truly amazing and thank you so much for allowing me on this journey with you. xx T.

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  106. No words can explain your loss, may God give you the strenght you'll both need to carry on. RIP beautiful baby boy!!!!

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  107. I have been following Dominic's journey through mutual friends on Facebook. Please accept my condolences. In looking through countless photos it appears that you made the most of the limited time you had together. You packed a lifetime of experiences and memories into his short life. As the father of a 2 year old myself I will go home and hug him a little tighter and a little longer tonight. God bless.

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  108. God bless and comfort you.

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  109. Hi Sean & Trish, been following your blog since 2013 through our mutual friend Sandra. We experienced cancer & 5 years of infertility before getting our little one. Having a little one after such a struggle does make them more precious, more grateful to deal with sleeplessness & diapers. That said, I'm so sorry for your loss, no parent should have to outlive a child. I'm so, so, so deeply sorry for your family.

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  110. My heart broke for you as I read of your loss. You truly were blessed to have this dear little boy and he was also very blessed to have such kind and loving parents. God be with all of you as you journey through the enormous grief of losing a child at such a tender age.

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  111. I am so very sorry for your loss.

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  112. I am so so sorry for your heartbreaking loss. I cannot imagine your pain. Praying for you and your family.
    (Friend of Houda)

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  113. I've been waiting for words all day, trying to come up with something comforting to say, but nothing is developing. I'm "just a guy" & all of this eloquent prose some of the others have written is way outside my comfort zone, but I just wanted to add another voice to those who offer condolences for your loss. Instead, I'm going to celebrate his life, pouring a bit of my best single malt scotch and quietly toast to the boy who made me cheer so many times over the past several months. Your little fighter made a difference in my life too.

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  114. Dominic has touched many lives and will remain a bright light in many hearts forever including mine. I have not met him but I can picture his face and it will forever make me smile. May Dominic's light shine forever on you. Gone but never lost, or far away. All our thoughts, hugs, and tears are yours my friend.

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  115. Goodnight sweet angel...you inspired more strangers than you will ever know. I hope your story continues to bring awareness and a cure someday. Xxx

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  116. I'm very sorry for your loss. It's so heartbreaking while your love for him is heartwarming. May you find peace and hope. Nadine Nicholson, Calgary

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  117. I'm so sorry. Your story is heartbreaking and your love for your son is very heartwarming. May you find peace and hope. May the power of love be the way.

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  118. Lee Anne Charbonneau7 September 2015 at 11:23

    Trish and Sean, I am so sorry to hear Dominic is gone. Heartbreaking news. Love to you both.

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  119. Hi Trish and Sean, I was thinking about Dominic this morning and rushing to your blog when I read that he became an angel. I am so sorry for your loss

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