‘You rose above Battens during Liam’s short life’

Scores of heartfelt tributes yesterday came through social media to a brave little boy who died from Battens Disease, which he had fought for four years.

Families with children suffering from the fatal condition were among those who tweeted and posted messages of admiration and sympathy on Facebook, following the death of Liam Heffernan, aged five. Many praised his parents, Tony and Mary, who lost their only child, as their daughter Saoirse died from the same disease four years ago, also aged five.

Gary Minns wrote: “Thoughts with you and your family at this sad time. Liam was a hero! Just like our little hero also battling with battens, William.’’