James “Whitey” Bulger was one of the most notorious and feared gangsters in Boston’s history. He led the Winter Hill Gang, a criminal organization that was involved in various illegal activities, such as racketeering, extortion, money laundering, and murder. He was also a longtime FBI informant, who provided information about his rivals in the Italian-American Mafia, while avoiding prosecution for his own crimes. Heavy.com
Bulger had a secret love child with his common-law wife, Lindsey Cyr, whom he met in the 1960s when she was a waitress. Their son, Douglas Glenn Cyr, was born in 1967, and was the only child that Bulger ever had. Bulger was said to be a doting father, who spent a lot of time with his son and treated him with care and affection. Irish Central
However, Bulger’s happiness was short-lived, as his son died tragically at the age of six from a rare condition called Reye’s syndrome. This syndrome causes swelling in the liver and brain, and can be triggered by viral infections or aspirin. Douglas contracted the syndrome after he was given some medicine for vomiting by a doctor. He was hospitalized on a Friday night, and by Monday he was brain dead. Heavy.com
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How Reye’s Syndrome Affects Children
Reye’s syndrome is a very rare but serious condition that mostly affects children and teenagers who are recovering from a viral infection, such as the flu or chickenpox. The exact cause of the syndrome is unknown, but it is believed that aspirin may play a role in triggering it. Aspirin is a common painkiller and anti-inflammatory drug that is often used to treat fever and inflammation. However, it can also interfere with the normal functioning of the liver and cause it to release toxic substances into the blood. These substances can then reach the brain and cause swelling and damage. [Mayo Clinic]
The symptoms of Reye’s syndrome usually appear a few days after the onset of a viral infection. They include vomiting, lethargy, confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness. The condition can progress rapidly and lead to coma and death if not treated promptly. The diagnosis of Reye’s syndrome is based on the clinical signs and symptoms, as well as blood tests and liver biopsy. The treatment of Reye’s syndrome is mainly supportive, and involves intensive care, fluid and electrolyte replacement, and monitoring of vital signs and brain function. The prognosis of Reye’s syndrome depends on the severity of the condition and the extent of the brain damage. Some children may recover completely, while others may suffer from permanent neurological impairments or die. [Mayo Clinic]
How Bulger’s Son’s Death Affected His Life and Career
Bulger’s son’s death was a devastating blow for him and his wife. They both grieved deeply and struggled to cope with the loss. Bulger became more withdrawn and depressed, and his relationship with Cyr deteriorated. They eventually drifted apart and separated, although they kept in touch for a few years. Cyr later remarried and had another son, who was named after Douglas. Irish Central
Bulger’s son’s death also had an impact on his criminal career. He became more ruthless and violent, and expanded his power and influence in the underworld. He also became more paranoid and secretive, and tried to protect his identity and whereabouts from the authorities and his enemies. He used various aliases and disguises, and moved frequently from one place to another. He also maintained a close relationship with his FBI handler, John Connolly, who tipped him off about a pending indictment against him in 1994. Bulger then fled the Boston area and went into hiding for 16 years, becoming one of the most wanted fugitives in the country. Wikipedia
Bulger was finally captured in 2011, along with his longtime girlfriend, Catherine Greig, in Santa Monica, California. He was tried and convicted on 31 counts of racketeering, money laundering, extortion, weapons charges, and involvement in 11 murders. He was sentenced to two consecutive life sentences plus five years in prison. He was killed in 2018, at the age of 89, by fellow inmates at a federal prison in West Virginia. Wikipedia
Conclusion
Whitey Bulger’s son, Douglas, was the only child that the gangster ever had, and his death from Reye’s syndrome was a tragic and traumatic event that changed his life and career. Reye’s syndrome is a rare but serious condition that causes swelling in the liver and brain, and can be fatal if not treated quickly. Bulger’s son’s death made him more depressed and violent, and led him to become more secretive and paranoid. He eventually became a fugitive and was captured after 16 years on the run. He died in prison after being attacked by other inmates.
