Family of toddler who drowned in pool hopes inquest into his death will save lives

<p>A "beautiful boy" wandered into a pool in 2023, he died in his mother's arms 12 days later.</p> <p><b>By Finn Blackwell </b><a href="https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/community/1103245/family-of-toddler-who-drowned-in-pool-hopes-inquest-into-his-death-will-save-lives" target="_blank"><b>of RNZ</b></a></p> <p>Now, River Albert-Wihone's family is hoping his story can save lives.</p> <p>The coroner's inquest into the toddlers death is underway in Auckland District Court, and has heard emotional statements from his family.</p> <p>River was just over a year old when he was found in the pool at his family home and was taken to Starship Children's Hospital, where he later died.</p> <p>His parents addressed the coroner through tears on Monday morning at the beginning of the inquest before Coroner Alison Mills.</p> <p>A number of family members watched from the back of the courtroom, clad in All Blacks jerseys – River's favourite team.</p> <p>His father, Matthew, spoke about the immense pain of his loss.</p> <p>"Losing a child changes you in ways you can't describe," he said.</p>…