Chatham family’s tribute to ‘mischievous and loving’ tot who died after a sudden seizure
05:00, 20 June 2024
updated: 13:13, 20 June 2024
The family of a 21-month-old toddler have paid tribute to him following his death.
Described as resilient, loving and mischievous, Artemis Sanson, from Lordswood, died at Medway hospital after he suffered a seizure.
His parents, Storm and Jamie, his four-year-old sister, Rosie, and his twin brother, Perseus, said Artemis, who was nicknamed Arty, was the “light of their life”.
The tot and his twin, nicknamed Percy, were born five-and-a-half weeks prematurely at Evelina London Children's Hospital on September 23, 2022.
Storm Sanson and her partner Jamie Stephenson, both 28, were told 22 weeks into her pregnancy that the boys had different forms of congenital heart disease - a general term for a range of birth defects which affect the way the heart works.
Artemis, who was named after the Artemis Fowl book character, weighed just four pounds and three ounces when he was born.
Doctors discovered that he had a 3.6 millimetre hole in his heart and diagnosed him with a ventricular septal defect.
Arty’s condition meant he had to have a challenging and complicated open-heart surgery when he was just months old.
His family say he never lost his determination or positive attitude.
Paying tribute to Arty, his family said: “He was a resilient, bright, mischievous little boy.
“During his time on this earth he faced many challenges and overcame them all with bravery, joy and laughter.
“He was the light of his family’s life, spreading his love to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
“He loved to play with his big sister Rosie and his twin brother Percy too. I’m sure you can imagine the mischief they all got up to.
“He inspired many, but none the way he inspired his family.
“The unconditional love he showed his family every day and the joy he brought them with his antics is a gift they will never be able to repay and one which will last a lifetime.
“He was a mummy’s boy through and through, and his favourite place was a cuddle in her arms ever since the day he was born.
“His playful antics, unconditional love and strength brought so much joy and happiness to their lives. Even now when he's not physically present, his presence is always felt in their hearts.
“Arty will always be cherished and remembered fondly by those fortunate enough to know him.
“Forever one, forever their baby.”
Following Arty’s death his family’s friends and loved ones have rallied their support and set up a GoFundMe page to help with his funeral costs.
More than £6,000 has been raised in a week.
Leah Saunders, a very close friend of Storm, set up the fundraiser.
The 25-year-old said: “Arty's family is grieving the loss of their precious child and the outpouring of support from friends, family, and strangers has been overwhelming.
“The funds raised through the GoFundMe page will help cover the costs of the funeral service and provide some financial relief to the family during this difficult time.
“Storm is very thankful for the money that has been raised. It will allow her to arrange things like a horse and carriage for his funeral.
“Arty was a truly special little boy who brought so much joy and laughter to those around him.
“He had a contagious happiness that would light up any room, and his funny antics always brought a smile to everyone's face.
“His playful spirit and loving nature touched the hearts of all who knew him, and his absence will be deeply felt by his family and friends.
“Arty's resilience and courage inspired all those around him, showing a maturity and bravery beyond his years.
“His memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known and loved him.”
If you would like to donate money towards Arty’s funeral click here.
The funeral date will be confirmed once a post-mortem has been carried out at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
However, his family say it is likely to take place at the Medway Crematorium by Blue Bell Hill with a wake held at Kent Life.
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