Je suis Charlie: Support from around world
MEMBERS of ‘Charlie’s Army’ around the world have been supporting his cause with the slogan ‘Je Suis Charlie Gard’.
A spontaneous outpouring of grief greeted news that the baby boy was on the verge of having his life support withdrawn.
Catholic groups called the decision to end Charlie’s care ‘heartbreaking’ and ‘draconian’, and candlelit vigils have been held in various Italian cities.
Social media users expressed anger and solidarity with the family using the hashtag #JeSuisCharlieGard – an echo of #JeSuisCharlie used after the Paris terror attack on Charlie Hebdo magazine in January 201 .
They posted emotive photos and messages of ‘Don’t kill Charlie!’ and ‘Great Ormond Street let him live!’
The world-renowned children’s hospital has struggled to maintain its reputation, with some Charlie supporters venting their anger and threatening to end charitable donations. Dozens of Italians have swamped the Vatican with messages calling on the Pope to intervene.
The little boy’s parents have been wearing T-shirts emblazoned with ‘Charlie’s Army’ and: ‘If he’s still fighting, we’re still fighting.’
They said in a video message to supporters: ‘Charlie will die knowing that he was loved by thousands – thank you to everyone for all your support.’