The death has occurred this week of Saoirse Ruane of Kiltullagh, Athenry, who became beloved by the nation with her appearance on the Late Late Toy Show in 2020.
At the age of 7 Saoirse was diagnosed with bone cancer in 2019, which required the amputation of her leg and chemotherapy.
In 2020 she appeared on the Late Late Toy Show and captured hearts across the country as she spoke of her battle with cancer, and showed how she he regained her ability to run with her new prosthetic.
She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family this week, aged 12, after a long fought battle with cancer.
“After a long courageous and dignified battle our hearts are shattered to tell you our beautiful little Saoírse took her final breath in our arms on Tuesday,” the family announced.
We thank you our lovely followers for holding Saoírse and us in your thoughts these past few weeks.”
“We think of you all today also as we know how much Saoírse was loved by the nation and the effect she had on so many people’s lives.”
“Cancer you stole her from us, the life we had and our dreams. Life will never be the same!”
“We ask you to respect our privacy now as we take our last and final journey with our beautiful girl.”
The notice on RIP stated, “Saoírse, aged just 12 years old, was surrounded, as she has been throughout her illness, by the love, care and devotion of her family, the prayers and goodwill of the community in Kiltullagh and people all over the country who held Saoírse in their hearts.”
Saoírse will repose at home on Friday, March before her funeral at St Peter and Paul’s Church, Kiltullagh at 1:45pm on Sunday, March 11.
As she reposes at home, a bus service will run from the car park at Bullaun Church for people seeking to pay their respects.
“You are asked to follow the directions of stewards and only attend by using the bus service,” instructions on RIP.ie stated.
Those who would like to make a donation in Soirse’s memory are asked to donate to the Galway Hospice using the following link: In Memory of Saoírse.
The former Late Late Toy Show presenter Ryan Tubridy paid tribute to Saoirse in a post which praised her for her character, and for starting a charity which “helped enrich and encourage the lives of thousands of children” in Ireland.
“A selfless, humble, kind, optimistic and thoughtful child. She was everything we should and could be as a country and her passing will put so much into perspective for so many of us.”
“I send my condolences and all the love possible to Roseanna, Ollie and Farrah Rose, a beautiful family whose world has changed utterly. I want to thank them for sharing their extraordinary Saoirse with us all.”
“The world is a poorer place without Saoirse but I do hope that twinkle in her eye shines on and on.”
