Southport, NC – A close-knit community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 12-year-old Tomas Remeikis, who tragically passed away on May 26, following a sudden health crisis related to pulmonary hypertension, a rare and serious condition that affects the heart and lungs.
Tomas was diagnosed as a toddler after doctors discovered a hole in his heart, a condition that often leads to complications including elevated blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. Despite this life-altering diagnosis, Tomas had been living an active and seemingly healthy lifestyle for years, participating in taekwondo classes twice a week and biking to school each day.
What Is Pulmonary Hypertension?
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a chronic and progressive disease where the blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries becomes abnormally high, putting strain on the right side of the heart. Over time, this pressure can cause heart failure, particularly in children whose conditions are not caught early or managed properly.
The National Health Service (NHS) recognizes pulmonary hypertension as a serious, life-threatening condition. In pediatric cases, it often results from congenital heart defects like atrial septal defects or ventricular septal defects—essentially, holes in the heart.
Children diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension may live active lives for years, but the risk of sudden cardiac events remains high, even when symptoms appear under control.
A Bright Life Cut Short
On May 26, Tomas suddenly fell ill at his family home in Southport, North Carolina. Despite efforts to rush him to the hospital, Tomas was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
His father, Andrius Remeikis, shared his grief in an interview with the Liverpool Echo, describing his son as “very kind and friendly,” someone who naturally attracted friends wherever he went.
“He was great. He was very kind and friendly. He always had friends. Tomas was born in Manchester. Two years ago we moved to Southport, a little dream of ours. We used to come here often, and when we finally moved, we were very happy.”
Tomas’s passing has left not only his immediate family devastated but also shocked many in the community who knew him as a vibrant, athletic, and joyful young boy.
Raising Awareness for Pediatric Heart Conditions
Tomas’s story underscores the critical need for awareness about pediatric pulmonary hypertension and congenital heart defects. These conditions are often misunderstood, and early diagnosis followed by consistent medical monitoring is crucial.
Parents, caregivers, and educators are urged to stay vigilant for symptoms such as:
- Persistent fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Fainting episodes
- Swelling in the legs or abdomen
Early medical intervention can dramatically improve quality of life and prognosis in children living with rare heart conditions.
Honoring Tomas’s Memory
Friends and family are now rallying to honor Tomas’s life and legacy, remembering him as a courageous, compassionate, and energetic child who defied the odds for years.
Local residents are planning community tributes, and a GoFundMe campaign (if one is launched) may be set up to support the Remeikis family during this unimaginably difficult time.
Final Thoughts
The sudden loss of Tomas Remeikis is a powerful reminder that even the most active and seemingly healthy children can be affected by hidden health conditions. His story shines a light on the silent danger of pediatric pulmonary hypertension and the need for better research, awareness, and support for families navigating this condition.
Let us remember Tomas not only for the tragedy of his untimely death but for the joy, strength, and inspiration he brought to those around him during his 12 short years.
