See 'NBC News' Anchor Richard Engel's Touching Tribute to His Son as He Turns 5-Years-Old

In a recent post on his Twitter feed, American journalist, author, and NBC News anchor Richard Engel paid a touching tribute to his son Henry Thomas on his 5th birthday.

The adorable video, which was posted just yesterday morning, garnered several positive reactions from his fans and followers. There was an immediate outpour of love for the 5-year-old.

The 13-second clip was taken in an amusement park. Henry, who was dressed in a striped long-sleeved top, was seen gently riding a carousel alongside his father and mother, Mary Forrest.

Engel was heard wishing his little boy a happy birthday in the background, while Forrest lovingly held on to the sweet child. Above the post, the news anchor captioned:

“Happy Birthday Henry! 5 years old today. And to all Rett and other special kids out there, we love you! @MaryKForrest”

Henry is the first child of his parents and was born in 2015. Two years later, the couple received shocking news about their son’s health. It was reported that the little boy was diagnosed with a variation of Rett syndrome.

The rare medical condition is a genetic brain disorder that does not have a cure. Engel found out about the news while he was reporting at North Korea with the U.S. troops.

Engel revealed that the bond between the two boys has been of great benefit to Henry during the pandemic.

The news anchor revealed that he received the shocking news when he called their doctor after Henry went for a genetic scan. It was also disclosed to him that the disorder was lifelong and untreatable.

The 47-year-old further added that he went back to work shaking and completely disoriented. It was the worst day of his life.

The couple revealed that they knew something was not right with their little boy. They explained that as he grew older, he still could not talk, walk, or clap his hands.

With understandable concern, his parents took him to many doctors in a bid to find out the root of the problem. They tried to quell their fears with the fact some children were late bloomers. The heartbreaking test results told a different story.

Three years later, the family seems to be doing just fine, even during the pandemic. Engel, however, opened up about the side effects of the lockdown on kids who needed special treatments and facilities.

He also added that Henry missed the hydrotherapy and equine therapy he used to enjoy. However, the pair reportedly welcomed their second child, Theo. Engel revealed that the bond between the two boys has been of great benefit to Henry during the pandemic.