Tragic Scots boy, 10, dies after heartbreaking battle with childhood dementia

A 10-year-old Scots boy died "surrounded by love" after a five year battle with rare childhood dementia.

Reece Mitchell, 10, from North Kessock near Inverness, was diagnosed with the CLN2 variant of Batten's disease, a form of childhood dementia, aged only five-years-old.

The incurable genetic disorder left young Reece suffering from seizures, and unable to move, talk or see, with mum Donna told upon the diagnosis that her son would have a severely reduced life expectancy.

Sadly, Reece passed on 10 May at Rachel House Children's Hospice in Kinross.

Mum Donna Mitchell, who had been sharing Reece's journey on social media, confirmed the news in a Facebook post.

"My darling boy died early this evening outside in the garden with the sun on his face and surrounded by so much love," said Donna.

"These last few weeks have been incredibly difficult and Reece has gone through so so much but even on the difficult days we made the best of our time together.

"Tonight we should have been camping under the stars for one last adventure and a massive thanks to everyone at the hospice who pulled out all the stops to get a tent, but Reece had other ideas, he has his own wee adventure to go on.

"As much as my heart is breaking Reece is now free from pain and I firmly believe he's reunited with my mam and dad who will keep him safe till I am reunited with my boy.

"Reece was not just my son but he was my best friend, my reason to get up every day and he has made us all better people.

"And if you were lucky enough to have met Reece, you will know how truly special he is and I know Reece has touched many many people and I'm proud to be his mam.

"Run free beautiful boy."

A fundraiser for the family has been created to raise money for funeral and memorial expenses.

To donate, click here.

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