Renowned jazz musician Rotem Sivan is facing a heart-wrenching tragedy as he mourns the death of his infant son, Eden, following a relentless struggle with a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. The family’s private grief became public through a solemn post on social media, leaving fans around the world sharing in their sorrow.
Eden, only 19 months old, passed away on the morning of Friday, February 1, concluding a year-long fight against atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT), a devastating diagnosis that turned a young family’s life upside down. The battle tested every ounce of strength, hope, and resilience that Rotem, his wife Lore, and their young children could summon.
In a poignant statement shared via Instagram Stories, Sivan wrote, “Our baby boy, Eden, passed away Friday morning. I would like to thank you for the love and support during this extremely hard year. Eden fought a hard fight and we did all we could to save him.” The message was accompanied by images showing moments of Eden’s short but deeply cherished life.
A Parent’s Worst Nightmare
Rotem Sivan, acclaimed for his emotive guitar performances and heartfelt compositions, emphasized the family’s focus on celebrating Eden’s life rather than dwelling solely on the tragedy. He shared that their priority now is to honor the memories of the laughter, hugs, and quiet moments they shared with their son. He also encouraged others to treasure their loved ones while they can.
Eden was born in June 2024 alongside his twin sister, Gigi, in what should have been a moment of pure joy and anticipation for the couple. The birth, however, marked the beginning of a journey no parent ever hopes to endure.
Within six months, Eden’s health took a devastating turn. He was diagnosed with atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT), an aggressive central nervous system cancer most often affecting very young children. According to medical research, ATRT typically develops in the cerebellum or brainstem and progresses rapidly, leaving families in a race against time to seek treatment.
From Ordinary Symptoms to a Life-Altering Diagnosis
Sivan previously described the frightening onset of Eden’s illness. What initially seemed like a routine childhood sickness escalated into a medical emergency. After struggling with poor appetite and persistent symptoms, Eden was brought to the hospital. Doctors initially treated him for walking pneumonia with antibiotics, but his condition did not improve.
Rotem recounted the moment that changed everything: “Once we moved, they wanted to do a CT scan. They did it, and they saw something and determined they needed to do an MRI.” Within hours, Eden was sedated and placed on a breathing tube, undergoing critical tests. “All of a sudden, really in a two-hour span, my little boy’s with a breathing tube, sedated, going into a pretty serious test. Doesn’t look good at all. It was pretty stressful,” Rotem said.
A Community Rallies Around Eden
Shortly after Eden’s diagnosis, a close family friend launched a GoFundMe campaign titled Baby Eden’s Cancer Recovery Journey, providing an avenue for supporters to assist the family during a period of immense uncertainty. The campaign highlighted the severity of Eden’s condition and the medical interventions he would require.
At just six months old, Eden underwent brain surgery to remove the tumor. While the procedure itself was successful, it marked the start of a grueling treatment regimen that included intensive chemotherapy and the potential for radiation therapy. The fundraiser emphasized the family’s selflessness and the difficulty of asking for help: “They shouldn’t have to worry about bills or expenses when their sole focus is on supporting Eden and his twin sister, Gigi, through this incredibly difficult time.” The campaign drew contributions from around the globe, each accompanied by messages of hope and solidarity.
Triumph and Trials Before the Storm
Prior to Eden’s diagnosis, Rotem and Lore had already endured a challenging journey to parenthood. After a year of trying to conceive, the couple was overjoyed to learn they were expecting twins. The pregnancy, however, came with significant complications.
Lore remained on bedrest for months due to the high risk of preterm labor. The twins were eventually born at 36 weeks—Eden arriving first, followed by Gigi just eight minutes later. Gigi initially experienced breathing difficulties but stabilized quickly after being placed on her mother’s chest, allowing doctors to avoid NICU intervention. It was a moment of relief and joy, a brief victory before the family’s subsequent ordeal.
In the following months, subtle warning signs began to appear with Eden. After minor illnesses, he failed to recover as quickly as his sister. Initial medical assessments found nothing unusual, and walking pneumonia was suspected. When Eden stopped eating and became lethargic, a nurse intervened, urging further testing. The subsequent ICU admission revealed the life-altering diagnosis of ATRT.
Music as a Beacon of Hope
Throughout the ordeal, Rotem leaned on his artistry as a source of strength. A dedicated musician and guitarist, he had composed an album titled Heart Thieves during Lore’s pregnancy, inspired by his children. Following Eden’s diagnosis, the music took on profound personal meaning.
“There’s a song called ‘Eden,’ a song called ‘Gigi.’ Everything has changed,” Sivan explained. Music became a lifeline, a medium of connection and comfort. In hospital rooms, Rotem played guitar while Lore softly sang to their son. “Sound and music is connected to life for me,” he said. “It was a ray of light.”
In mid-2025, Sivan shared videos chronicling Eden’s cancer journey, exposing the family’s raw heartbreak. At that time, Eden had already begun his fifth round of chemotherapy. “It’s hard days with many sudden twists,” Rotem said, reflecting on the unpredictable nature of the illness. “I hope Eden’s story will help someone… face the beast and be a better human.”
An Outpouring of Global Support
Following the devastating news of Eden’s passing, the couple has been inundated with condolences and expressions of support. Fans and well-wishers have filled social media with messages of love, prayers, and solidarity. “I’m so sorry,” wrote one supporter. “Sending so much love and many prayers,” added another, while a third commented, “Omg so sad. Sending prayers for the family.”
Despite the grief, Rotem and Lore remain committed to preserving Eden’s memory. They emphasize celebrating the joy he brought into their lives, however brief, and encouraging others to cherish their loved ones. Rotem reflected on his son’s spirit: “He was a happy boy and was able to share his light despite the battles. We wish to celebrate Eden’s life… and hope we can all take a moment to hug our loved ones.”
As the family navigates this profound loss, Eden’s story stands as both a tribute to his courage and a reminder of life’s delicate beauty. Through music, memories, and community support, Rotem and Lore continue to honor their son, ensuring that his light remains in the world even as they grieve.
