Mother of Saoirse Ruane shares heartbreaking message ahead of funeral

Saoirse's funeral took place in Athenry on Sunday.

The 12-year-old girl, who touched the hearts of the nation following her appearance on the Late Late Toy Show in 2020, passed away after a long battle with cancer.

In a post on Instagram, Saoírse’s mother Roseanna shared a beautiful photo of them together, saying that they’ll have one last Mother’s Day together.

"One last Mother’s Day with you before you go. So grateful to have you today Saoírse. RIP 10/03/24."

Mother of Saoirse Ruane shares heartbreaking message ahead of funeral

Since her passing was announced last week, tributes have flooded in for the 12-year-old.

One of those was from President Michael D Higgins, who Saoírse visited in 2022.

President Higgins gave his condolences to the Ruane family, while adding: “Saoírse’s strength and warmth was an inspiration to all.”

Ryan Tubridy, who was presenting the Late Late Toy Show when Saoirse made an appearance, also paid tribute to his "dear little friend".

In a post on Instagram, Tubridy said: “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."

Saoírse was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in December 2019 and had her right leg amputated.

Her appearance on the Toy Show in 2020 saw the founding of the Toy Show appeal, which has since raised millions of euros for children’s charities.

Towards the end of 2023, Saoírse’s mother Roseanna said that the 12-year-old was undergoing treatment after a fourth cancer diagnosis.

In a notice online last week, Saoírse’s family announced her passing "after a long illness bravely borne, in the arms of her heartbroken parents Ollie and Roseanna."

The funeral service for Saoirse Ruane took place on Sunday at St Peter and Paul’s Church in Kiltullagh, Athenry at 2pm.