Toddler chokes to death on cherry as dad says seven heartbreaking words
A heartbroken father has shared his anguish after his two year old daughter tragically choked on a common piece of fruit.
Little Viviana Maria Barel was dining with her siblings at their family home in Revine Lago, northern Italy, when she choked on a cherry. Tragically, despite frantic attempts to save the toddler, Viviana suffocated to death. The heartbreaking incident occurred around 10 pm on the evening of Saturday, June 14.
Distraught dad Renato Barel informed local press that a nurse residing in the same apartment block had tried to clear the obstruction using the Heimlich manoeuvre. Emergency services arrived swiftly at the scene after an ambulance was summoned and began preparations to intubate Viviana and transport her into the ambulance, reports the Mirror.
However, before they could rush the little girl to the hospital, it became painfully apparent that it was already too late. Vivana had died from oxygen deprivation. Recalling his cherished daughter, dad Renato said: "She was a happy and lively child."
Police are reportedly now probing into Viviana's death. The young girl's funeral took place yesterday (June 18) at 3:30 pm, at the church of San Matteo, in Revine. Italian news outlet Il Gazzettino reported that the "entire town paused this afternoon to say goodbye" as Viviana's "small white coffin" was carried into the church, almost exactly one year on from the day of her baptism.
As onlookers fought to contain their emotions, a solemn hush fell across Revine Lago; its bars and shops shuttered in observance of the day of mourning ordered by Mayor Massimo Magagnin. Mayor Magagnin articulated: "Our entire community gathers around the family in this moment of immense sadness."
Parish priest, Don Angelino Granziera, who led the poignant service, honoured "a little girl who radiated happiness". Speaking to the congregation, including Viviana's immediate family, he proclaimed: "Viviana is now in the safe hands of the Lord, ready to welcome a life to make it flourish in eternity.
"Her short earthly journey entrusts us with an important treasure. Her great joy, her ever-ready smiles, the beauty of her face will continue to live".
Following the conclusion of the funeral rites, Viviana's casket was carried away for cremation. The touching epitaph inscribed for her said: "You were a gift to all of us. The love you lit in our hearts will never be extinguished."
Previously, the same outlet had recounted how Viviana's distraught parents waited until daylight to convey the tragic news to her two young sisters, ages six and nine.
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