The mother of toddler Ruby Edwards, who died last Sunday after contracting COVID-19, has given birth to a baby boy, with the family saying the newborn brings the promise of happier times.
Levi Edwards was born on Friday afternoon in Redlands, east of Brisbane, with Ruby's comforter, embroidered with her name, by his side for some of his first photos.
His father Steven announced the birth on Facebook, saying Levi and his mother Krystal were healthy and happy.
"We're just in awe of him and know his big sister Ruby is watching over us as he was safely guided into this world," Mr Edwards wrote.
"Levi brings with him hope and light, a promise of happy times as we look to the future.
"We've got a long road ahead of us but each day with him in our arms and Ruby in our hearts, it will get easier.
"Although nothing will bring our baby girl back, it will help our family move into the future as we heal."
It has been six days since the family lost Ruby, who was just two weeks shy of her second birthday.
She had suddenly become unwell after contracting the virus, testing positive on July 14.
Mr Edwards said the virus triggered Acute Hemorrhagic Leukoencephalitis (AHLE), a very rare neurological condition that was caused by inflammation in Ruby's brain and spinal cord.
He said at the time that while Ruby fought hard, the condition was too aggressive.
"Thanks to her treatment, we don't believe she suffered any pain during her fight and was able to leave this world peacefully," Mr Edwards said at the time.
She is the youngest person in Queensland to have died with the virus.
