Cats praise Bryce’s bravery
HEARTFELT tributes have flowed from across the nation for inspiring Corio teen Bryce McKiernan.
News of Bryce’s passing on Tuesday morning — following a lifelong battle with kabuki syndrome — was shared with friends and followers on a family-run Facebook page that has been used to document his journey since 2015.
“In the early hours of (Tuesday) morning our beautiful Bryce became the brightest star in the sky,” the post said.
“He is now resting peacefully with no pain.”
More than 680 people, many of them who had never met the 15-year-old Nelson Park student but were touched by his story, reached out to share their condolences via comment.
They spoke of his smile, strength and ability to inspire and sent words of support to his parents Stacey and Darrin, and siblings Tori, Riley and Hollie.
The Geelong Football Club, which used its contacts and star power to ensure the campaign to throw Bryce the party of a lifetime was a success, was devastated by the loss.
“The Cats are deeply saddened by the passing of our lit- tle hero, Bryce. Your resilience will continue to inspire everyone at the Cats,” the club tweeted.
Captain Joel Selwood, who spent time with Bryce on a number of occasions — including at the party and during the Cats’ annual team photo — referenced one of the pair’s final interactions in a farewell tweet.
“I received a fist pump photo on the weekend after the boys’ efforts against the Tigs. Now you’ll send them down from the sky. Rest easy buddy,” he said.
A GoFundMe account has been created to help Bryce’s family give him a fitting sendoff.
You can help by visiting go fundme.com/brycesstarshines bright
“I received a fist pump photo on the weekend after the boys’ efforts against the Tigs. Now you’ll send them down from the sky. Rest easy buddy,” JOEL SELWOOD