The mum of a brave severely disabled youngster who died following years of medical treatment has paid tribute to her son following his inquest.
Eight-year-old Brandon McBurney, who suffered from cerebral palsy, died suddenly last December following a series of health problems.
At an inquest at Manchester Coroners’ Court this week, coroner Nigel Meadows concluded that Brandon had died of natural causes.
Mum Emma Longton, 29, said her son passed away at Royal Manchester Hospital a few days after being taken ill.
She added: “He was an outgoing and very friendly little boy. He had a smile for everyone. Even if he didn’t know them he had a smile for them.
“He loved school and respite at Derian House and going to Blackpool. He really loved after school classes at Tor View and White Ash schools. We are still really missing him.”
The pathologist’s report found the cause of death was septicemia associated with acute bronchial pneumonia and cerebral palsy.
Brandon, of Pansy Street South, Accrington, was in class five at White Ash Special School, and suffered from cerebral palsy, epilepsy, osteoporosis and was visually impaired.
During his short life he spent a lot of time in hospital and had undergone several operations, including a procedure to remove his voicebox.
Brandon enjoyed trampolining, hydrotherapy and loved visiting Blackpool with his family.
He particularly enjoyed after school activities at Tor View and White Ash and loved school sports days.
Dozens of people turned out to his funeral at Antley Methodist Church in January.
Earlier this year, the family raised £1,000 in memory of Brandon at a St Patrick’s Day party for Derian House Children’s Hospice, where the youngster enjoyed play and therapy sessions. His family also donated Brandon’s Christmas presents to raise funds for the cause.
As well as mum Emma, he left dad Martin, 37, and little sister Holly, 2, grandmother Marian and grandfather Gerard. He was the grandson of the late Ian and the late Christine and was a much loved step-grandson of Irene.
