Saoírse Ruane, the courageous girl from Galway who captured the hearts of many with her appearance on The Late Late Toy Show, tragically passed away at the tender age of 12 after a brave battle with cancer. Her story of strength, resilience, and grace in the face of such adversity touched the lives of people across Ireland and beyond. Saoírse’s death was confirmed by her family on Tuesday, leaving her parents, Roseanna and Ollie, as well as her younger sister, Farrah-Rose, devastated.
Saoírse’s journey began in November 2019 when she first complained of an injured ankle, only to later be diagnosed with cancer. She underwent an amputation of her leg in 2020 to treat an osteosarcoma tumor in her tibia. Her story became widely known during her appearance on The Late Late Toy Show, where she shared her battle against this rare and aggressive form of bone cancer. Her strength and resilience inspired everyone who heard her story.
The loss of their beloved daughter has shattered her parents, who spoke with great emotion, stating, “After a long, brave, and dignified battle, our hearts are broken to announce that our beautiful Saoírse passed away in our arms on Tuesday.” They thanked the public for their continued support and expressed their gratitude, acknowledging the deep impact Saoírse had on the hearts of many people across the country.
Saoírse’s family had shared a heart-wrenching health update in November of the previous year, revealing that the cancer had spread. They described the shock and devastation of learning that the cancer had returned, metastasizing to her lungs. Despite undergoing extensive chemotherapy, Saoírse’s health continued to decline, and her family was left grappling with the reality that their little warrior was facing her toughest battle yet.
Many public figures, including President Michael D. Higgins and sports stars like Peter O’Mahony, have paid tribute to Saoírse, honoring her incredible spirit. TV personalities such as Kathryn Thomas and radio hosts like Declan Pierce also shared their condolences, highlighting how Saoírse’s smile and bravery brightened their lives. Her legacy of strength, courage, and positivity will live on in the hearts of all those who were touched by her story. Saoírse’s funeral will take place at St. Peter and Paul’s Church, Kiltullagh, and her family has invited people to celebrate her life and legacy.
Saoírse’s remarkable journey will continue to inspire and uplift those who hear about her courage and unshakable spirit, and she will forever be remembered as a beacon of hope.