TikTok creator Whitney Frost is mourning the loss of her 6-year-old son.
The mom of three shared news that her son, Harrison, had died on January 6. The little boy was living with infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy (INAD). The disease affects motor skills and voluntary muscle function. Children with INAD have a typical life expectancy of 8 to 12 years of age.
Harrison was not Whitney's only child with INAD. Harrison's older sister, 8-year-old Riley, is also living with the illness and has recently been in rough shape. Still, Whitney has shared updates from her family with the world and continues to give insight into their lives as they mourn Harrison and care for Riley in her time of need.
Whitney Frost posted a heartbreaking video announcing the death of her 6-year-old son, Harrison. The family's social media followers are used to updates about the family's life, but this has been by far the most emotional yet.
"Harrison passed away today at 3:35 pm," Whitney wrote.
"He went quickly. And did not suffer. We are devastated, but glad he's no longer in pain."
Fans of the family were concerned after a previous update revealed that both Riley and Harrison were experiencing fevers and had trouble breathing. Whitney and her family had a plan in place and were following up with medical professionals.
Harrison was able to enjoy Christmas with his family before his death. This was especially meaningful because COVID had limited his and Riley's interactions with people outside of their family and medical team.
In an update video, Whitney thanked her followers for the outpouring of love and support. She revealed that Riley's condition was improving, though the little girl is still struggling. Whitney also shared that the family had donated Harrison's brain to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU).
In another update, Whitney struggled while sharing that they were finalizing funeral plans for Harrison and that he would be cremated shortly.
"And even though I have this huge support system, I feel alone. He was 6 years old. It just doesn't feel real," she shared through tears.
"I thought I was prepared. I thought that I was prepared for this. I knew that this was coming and it still blindsided me."
Riley's condition has improved, and though there are still issues to address, Whitney seems confident she's doing better. Now the family is steeling themselves for Harrison's funeral, which they believe will be next week. Riley will be able to attend, Whitney shared with followers.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help Whitney, husband Jason, and eldest child Natalie as they continue to care for Riley and mourn Harrison. It is just beyond halfway to their $50,000 goal.
