Keiton Knight

RIP Keiton Knight, beautiful brave little soldier passes away peacefully

From mum Paris: "My Angel, Keiton, passed away this morning; he went peacefully with everyone who loves him around him. God bless You all for all your love and support. Paris xx"

Many of us were introduced to Keiton’s story at the Gift of Life fundraising Ball in September 2006.

His Mother Paris and Uncle Warren warmed us with a heartfelt appeal that lead to an extremely productive and successful bone marrow campaign in his aid. Hundreds, possibly thousands of new recruits were added to the register thanks to this lovely, bright boy and the efforts of so many that came to his assistance by joining ‘KEITON’s ARMY’.

Despite the success of the appeal, a bone marrow match wasn’t found. Doctors then suggested a blood cord transplant and Keiton was due to have the precedure on January 5 this year.

However, just before Christmas, doctors delivered a further blow to his family, telling them once again, Keiton's cancer had returned, meaning the transplant could not go ahead.

Keiton was an incredibly bubbly, smiley and energetic child. Some of us had the honour of meeting him and admiring his beautiful, cheeky smile.

He was an exceptional young soul that excelled in tennis and violin playing. A true little soldier that, despite a painful illness, was always full of smiles, laughter and remarkable courage. He was aware of how cancer was affecting his life but he remained strong and hardly ever complained!

He was a special individual that, just like Brian Daley aka Dj Swing, brought people together and generated unmatched energy and community spirit. His experience makes us realise how important is to live life for the moment and fully appreciate our blessings as our time here isn’t promised.

Keiton touched many hearts and has made it possible for others to receive the ‘Gift of Life’ through the awareness raised and the number of new bone marrow donors that came forward to help him. His life is to be celebrated, not mourned.

He truly was always an angel… He might be smiling down from the ether now but his spirit will always be with us.

R.I.P. our little soldier and Thank You for your teachings in Love and Unity.