David Cameron's Son Dies

[Boggy1 45]

David and Samantha Cameron have passed on their thanks for the messages of support after the death of son Ivan, their "beautiful boy".

William Hague, standing in for the Conservative leader as PM's questions was suspended, said Ivan had brought "joy and love to those around him".

Gordon Brown said everyone's thoughts and prayers were with the family.

Six-year-old Ivan, who had cerebral palsy and epilepsy, died at St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, London.

Mr Brown, who suggested suspending the weekly Commons clash as a mark of respect, said every child was "precious and irreplaceable" and that the death of a child "was something that no parent should have to bear".

The prime minister, whose daughter Jennifer Jane died aged just 10 days in 2002, paid tribute to Ivan saying: "I know that in an all too brief life, he brought joy to all those around him and I know also that for all the days of his life, he was surrounded by his family's love."quote>

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/7909562.stm

Whatever party you support, it is always tragic when a child dies. My heart really goes out to David Cameron and his family, I can't quite believe what they must be feeling right now. It really is amazing to see what they have done for Ivan.

Being a carer for my grandparents, who were both disabled, myself, I know what it is like to take part in round-the-clock care. It is very difficult, and it takes a lot out of you. The way they have coped is incredible. My heartfelt support goes out to his family.

[belfastuniguy 18]

I agree, incredibly tragic. Although all parents have close bonds with their children I've seen that parent of disabled children have incredibly close bonds which makes death just horrendous for them.

In one aspect the situation with Ivan was a good thing in terms of shaping David as a person and political, his use of public services and meeting parents in the same situation has shaped his policy in regard to Britain's health and social services. Making him fully understand how important they are, instead of being a distant Tory toff.