Family Mourns Loss of 8-Year-Old Connor Coster to Cancer

The Coster family is grieving the loss of their son, Connor Coster, who passed away after a long battle with cancer at the age of eight. Diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic lymphoma featuring a rare Philadelphia-positive chromosome at just four years old, Connor underwent extensive treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and multiple bone marrow transplants. His journey came to a heartbreaking conclusion after a relapse in 2023, when he was once again treated at Starship Hospital in New Zealand.

Connor’s rare genetic mutation complicated his treatment, making it particularly challenging. Despite undergoing CAR T-cell therapy in Melbourne, his condition deteriorated as his blood counts failed to recover. He subsequently developed therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a serious blood disorder linked to earlier treatments.

In a recent statement to the New Zealand Herald, Connor’s mother, Lisa Robertson, shared poignant memories of her son. “One thing that Connor has wanted for the last four years is just to live, and that was true right up until the end,” she said. “He wanted to shed his light on the world and experience it all.”

Connor’s caring nature was evident even in his final days. During a moment of illness, he asked his father, Bobby Coster, “Are you okay, daddy?” Bobby reassured him, to which Connor responded, “Yeah, I’m okay babe, are you?” This exchange highlights the deep bond the family shared and Connor’s selflessness, even amidst his suffering.

The family encourages those who wish to support them to contribute to Connor’s Givealittle page. They expressed gratitude for the kindness shown to them throughout Connor’s journey. “Connor taught us to feel love and show love in a way we never knew possible,” they remarked.

Connor’s younger brother, Koda, remains connected to him in spirit. According to Lisa, Koda often expresses that he feels Connor is watching over him. “One day he said twice, ‘Connor’s up in the stars. I can see him’,” she recounted. Yet, the loss weighs heavily on Koda, who frequently says, “I miss my brother,” especially at night.

The Coster family’s story serves as a reminder of the profound impact of love and loss. Connor’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who knew him and those who hear his story.