A "superhero" four-year-old little boy has tragically died after a long battle with a rare type of brain cancer.
Nova Yates died in the arms of his heartbroken parents Heather and Danny Yates on the morning of Wednesday, November 9, around 9.45am. The little boy, said to be "the most loveable", began to lose his balance at age two and his face started to droop.
Nova, who leaves behind his older sister, was rushed to Leeds Children's Hospital and underwent an agonising 10-hour brain operation which left him unable to walk or eat. The "brightest star" went through a gruelling 18 months of chemotherapy, as well as six weeks of radiotherapy and people put under general anaesthetic every night.
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He spent two years in hospital, often isolated from his parents, and dealing with "brutal and devastating" side effects. Nova's parents were determined to find their son the treatment he needed. His medical case was sent across the world to be investigated.
Sadly, there were no other treatments available for the "caring" four-year-old. At the time, mum Heather said: "We are left with no other options than to accept Nova now has terminal cancer with only months to live.
"Nova is the most loveable and caring four-year old boy that you could ever meet and he has been through so much in his short life." Now she is left with the heartache of never seeing her son again.
Confirming his death in a social media post, the 26-year-old said: "Photos of cuddles before bed last night, little did we know it would be the last. Nova passed away this morning in mine and his dad's arms at home.
"I love you so much my superhero forever and ever." Thousands of pounds was raised by his family and members of the community to help him and his family enjoy his final months together.
Tributes have poured in following his tragic death, and many have changed their social media photographs to a picture of a dinosaur with the caption 'Super-Nova' in his honour. Family, friends, and those who knew Nova's story have shared tributes.
Jemma Leigh said: "The most beautiful, strongest superhero I know! Thinking of you all."
Renee Wright added: "My heart breaks for u at this sad time. But he fought till the very end and was loved by many and will be missed so much RIP lil man may u fly high n be the brightest star in the sky."
Kirsty Barry said: "Absolutely devastated for you all. If there is one thing to remember he was a true little fighter and the most happiest little boy." Carole Braddock added: "What an amazing family you all are I'm heartbroken for you.
"Nova truly was a superhero. He'll never be forgotten."
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