Charlie Gard death: Pope Francis leads tributes for youngster who died of rare genetic condition

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The Pope has led tributes to Charlie Gard, and prayed for the deceased baby’s parents and loved ones.

The 11-month-old, who suffered a rare brain disorder, died yesterday.

Writing on Twitter, Pope Francis said: “I entrust little Charlie to the Father and pray for his parents and all those who loved him.”

The child’s plight captured hearts around the world, and his parents’ unsuccessful court battle to take him abroad for experimental treatment gained international media attention.

Pope Francis took a personal interest in the case and drew the attention of Catholics to Charlie earlier this month, when he announced he was following the family’s struggle.

The Vatican press office said the pontiff prayed that "their wish to accompany and treat their child until the end is not neglected".

President Donald Trump also tweeted about the case, saying the United States would be "delighted" to help if it could.

The intervention of the two high profile international figures sparked an international campaign to try and gain further treatment for the youngster.

Following news of Charlie's death, Vice President Mike Pence tweeted: "Saddened to hear of the passing of Charlie Gard. Karen and I offer our prayers and condolences to his loving parents during this difficult time."

Prime Minister Theresa May also paid tribute to Charlie’s family.

"I am deeply saddened by the death of Charlie Gard,” she said. “My thoughts and prayers are with Charlie's parents Chris and Connie at this difficult time.”

On Thursday, mother Connie Yates claimed she and Charlie's father, were "denied" their "final wish" when a High Court judge approved a plan to see Charlie moved to a hospice.

His parents had pleaded to be allowed more time with him, after their earlier request to take him home to die also failed.

Charlie, who was born on 4 August last year, had a form of mitochondrial disease, a condition that causes progressive muscle weakness and brain damage.

Described as "perfectly healthy" when he was born, Charlie was admitted to hospital at eight weeks and his condition progressively deteriorated.

The couple said they wanted to take their son across the Atlantic for nucleoside bypass therapy, but specialists at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, where Charlie was being cared for, said the treatment was experimental and would not help.