‘Ireland won’t forget just how remarkable Saoírse Ruane was’

Saoírse Ruane passed away on March 5th

My heart broke as I read the moving tribute her parents shared with their followers, but I couldn’t quite believe the news. No 12-year-old should ever have to deal with the health battle Saoírse faced so courageously. No 12-year-old should have their life cut so short by cancer.

The country feels less than following the loss of Saoírse, but we need to honour the Toy Show star by learning from her warmth, strength, and pure heart.

News of Saoírse’s passing has put so much into perspective for many of us. It has shown me that we need to tell the people we love just how important they are to us while they’re still here. Seeing everyone from President Higgins to people I follow on Instagram pay tribute to Saoírse showed how important she was to this country. 

"Saoírse taught the nation to be more appreciative, more hopeful, and more kind"

Saoírse has been described as an ‘inspiration’ by many but I don’t think that word even comes close to how special she was. She was a child who faced something many of us can’t even begin to imagine. Treatment, surgeries, exhausting trips from her home in Galway to the hospital in Dublin, uncertainty, fear, and confusion. But time and time again, Saoírse appeared in public with a smile on her face and with her teddy, Slush, by her side.

At just 12 years old, Saoírse Ruane became one of the most treasured and impactful people because of her strength, bravery, and immeasurable spirit. There’s no doubt we’ll ever forget just how remarkable she was.

Saoírse Ruane's family has asked the public to honour her by donating to the Galway Hospice.