People all over the country held Saoirse in their hearts
Hundreds of mourners to pay tribute after brave cancer fight
HUNDREDS of people are expected to come together tomorrow to say farewell to little Saoirse Ruane.
The 12-year-old, who captured the hearts of the nation with her fight against bone cancer, died on Tuesday.
And her funeral will take place in her native Kiltullagh, Co Galway, at 2pm.
Paying tribute to the lion-hearted youngster on Thursday, her heartbroken family said: “In Saoirse’s short life, she inspired and influenced so many.
“If you would like to make a donation in Saoirse’s memory, please donate to the Galway Hospice using the following link: In Memory of Saoirse.”
Her funeral notice read: “It is with broken hearts the Ruane family announces the passing of their beautiful daughter and sister, Saoirse, who passed away peacefully at home, after a illness bravely borne, in the arms of her heartbroken parents, Ollie and Roseanna.
“She was surrounded 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 her in their hearts.
“Saoirse will repose at home on Friday, from 2pm to 8pm. A bus service will run from the car park at Bullaun Church and you are asked to follow the directions of stewards and only attend by using the bus service.
“The funeral cortege will arrive on Sunday, to St Peter and Paul’s Church, Kiltullagh at 1.45pm for Mass for Saoirse at 2pm. Saoirse will be laid to rest in Bullaun Cemetery after mass.”
In November 2019, Saoirse, who is survived by parents Roseanna and Ollie and sister Farrah Rose, was diagnosed with bone cancer.
Her courage inspired the establishment of the RTE Toy Show Appeal after her appearance on the programme in 2020 alongside host Ryan Tubridy.
President Michael D Higgins, who is also from Galway, led tributes to the tragic schoolgirl.
His spokesman said: “President Higgins has sent his deepest condolences to the family of Saoirse Ruane, following her passing at the age of 12.
“Her strength and warmth was an inspiration to all.”
Writing on Instagram, Tubridy added: “It is with the greatest sadness imaginable that I’ve heard the news of my dear young friend Saoirse’s passing.
“We became friends instantly when we met. She told her story, the nation fell in love with her and a charity began because of her and with that she 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.”
After Saoirse’s death was announced, social media was flooded with tributes to her.
One post on X, formerly Twitter, read: “Just heard the devastating news that the beautiful Saoirse Ruane has passed away
“The gorgeous girl who bravely dealt with the amputation of her leg was the inspiration behind the Toy Show Appeal.”
In her short life, Saoirse inspired & influenced so many RUANE FAMILY
Irish Mirror story STATEMENT YESTERDAY