YouTuber Kori Parkin-Stovell dies aged just 11 in his 'mum's arms'

British YouTube star Kori Parkin-Stovell, who was born with a rare heart condition and rose to fame as Kraken The Box on the internet, died at the age of 11 in his mum’s arms after two failed heart transplants.

The devastating news was confirmed by Kori’s mother Pixi who shared a tearful video on Twitter on Sunday. Kori was an aspiring social media star with a large fan base and many of his YouTube fans shared poignant tributes after the young boy’s tragic passing.

Kori Parkin-Stovell dies at 11 after failed transplants

Kori, a young schoolboy and British online star, has died at 11 after two failed heart transplants. He was born with a rare heart health condition called hypoplastic left heart syndrome, which meant that the left side of his heart wasn’t fully developed.

The young boy had an unsuccessful first transplant in 2018 and underwent another surgery in 2020 when his body rejected the organ for a second time. His family decided not to undergo a third transplant procedure.

Kori’s mom Pixi confirmed his passing in a devastating video on Twitter on Sunday (July 9, 2023) and said: “I’m beside him right now. He went fairly peacefully. He’s currently lying in his bed, I’m in his bedroom. His captain’s hat is beside his head and he has a parrot flag over him.”

She continued: “I would like to ask that you carry on Kori’s channel subs, and interact with his videos because I am not letting his channel go and for all those people who tried to make Kori’s wish come true while he was here, thank you. I don’t know what to do – he was my baby boy.”

Kori was an aspiring YouTube star

Kori was a beloved YouTube star with a fan base of 206,000 subscribers. He became an online sensation on the internet and raised awareness about his rare heart condition.

The young schoolboy was obsessed with pirates and Pirates of the Caribbean movies. Kori’s videos included vlogs with his family, unboxing and reaction videos.

“Follow me, Captain Kori, and me crew mate Pixi, as we discover the treasures to be found in the pirate wonderland of urbex, unboxing, and adventures!!” his YouTube bio says.

One of Kori’s biggest dreams came true when Johnny Depp transformed into Captain Jack Sparrow and sent a special message with the support of the charity Make a Wish.

Tributes pour out to Kori

Tributes have poured out to Kori on YouTube after the tragic news of his passing. Many of his followers shared poignant messages, their fond memories of the young star, and send their condolences to his family.

“Everyone who supported this channel and sent prayers or gifts, you built something beautiful,” one touching tribute read. “You created a fountain bursting with love and support for a young family that needed it. Kori’s dream became a reality for him. That is something many of us live our whole lives have not experienced. You are beautiful, wonderful humans.”

“I am so sorry for your loss, Pixie. Kori was a magical child,” a second fan wrote. “Thank you for sharing him with us. Rest in peace, Kori.”

“It was an honor having you as our Captain. Rest well, Kori,” another tribute read. Someone else added: “Fly high Captain Kori. You will always be in our hearts. Deepest condolences to Pixi and the family.”

Jenniffer Sheldon

Update: 2024-04-19

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