US actor and comedian Rob Delaney recently shared his desire to buy the home where his two-year-old son, Henry, passed away in 2018. Henry tragically lost his battle with a brain tumor, and Delaney expressed his wish to experience his final moments in the same room where his son took his last breath.
During an interview on Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs, Delaney revealed that he had asked the landlord of the property to inform him first if they ever decided to sell the house. He explained, “Listen, if you ever go to sell this place, let me know first because I would like to buy it. So when I’m 81 I can crawl in here and die. In the same room that my son died in, that my other son was born in.”
Before Henry’s passing, his parents shared the news of expecting another child with him. Delaney emphasized the importance of Henry knowing that his family was growing and that their love for him continued. Despite the heartbreaking loss, the actor found solace in the fact that his younger son was born in the same room where Henry took his last breath.
Delaney, known for his roles in “Catastrophe” and “Deadpool 2,” has been a vocal advocate for the National Health Service (NHS) following the death of his son. He praised the NHS for the exceptional care they provided to Henry and his family during their difficult time.
Reflecting on his emotional journey, Delaney shared his struggles with alcoholism and his path to recovery. He has been sober for over two decades, attributing his decision to stop drinking to a car crash that served as a wake-up call. Despite having a family history of alcoholism, Delaney acknowledged the destructive nature of the disease and the importance of facing and processing one’s pain.
In addition to grappling with personal challenges, Delaney and his wife, Leah, have chosen to remain in London to honor the memories of their son Henry. The actor fondly recalled visiting the playground where Henry used to play and interacting with the nurses who cared for his son. The couple’s decision to stay in London was fueled by the connections and experiences they shared with their beloved son.
Delaney’s candid interview shed light on the complexities of grief, love, and resilience in the face of unimaginable loss. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring bond between a parent and child, transcending life and death. Despite the heartbreak and pain, Delaney’s unwavering love for his family and his commitment to sobriety offer a message of hope and healing to those facing their own struggles.