Noah had rare genetic disorder
A SUPERDAD who has adopted five disabled children says he is numb with grief after his son died suddenly aged just two.
Ben Carpenter, 35, thanked friends and family for their support after he lost Noah, saying their kindness had brought him comfort at a difficult time.
He said the death was “sudden and unexpected”.
He said: “My beautiful baby boy passed away. Words cannot describe how numb I am feeling right now.”
In May, devoted Ben told of his joy at being given permission to adopt Noah.
He described the tot as a pleasure to look after, adding: “He is the most placid child I have ever cared for.”
Ben also talked about Noah’s “wonderful personality” and his “big beaming smile”.
Ben, of Huddersfield, West Yorks, took in Noah when his parents were unable to look after him. He suffered from a rare genetic disorder called Cornelia de
Lange syndrome, which meant he had complex needs.
The symptoms of the syndrome, discovered in 1933, can vary widely but may include growth delays, intellectual disability and limb defects.
Those with the condition can exhibit self-destructive behaviour, excess hair growth, hearing loss and heart trouble.
Life expectancy can be shortened due to the heart condition, although some people with Cornelia de Lange syndrome live well into adulthood.
The heartbreaking news comes just days after Ben revealed he was hopeful of adopting his sixth child – another baby boy.
Ben is currently going through the adoption process for the child, who suffers from a disability that affects his mobility.
Ben, who was 21 when he took in his eldest son Jack, has been recognised for his work promoting adoption.
There are no words to describe how numb I am feeling right now
BEN CARPENTER AFTER HIS SON’S SUDDEN DEATH