Loved Saoírse Ruane, who captured the hearts of many with her appearance on The Late Late Toy Show, passed away at the young age of 12 after battling cancer. The brave girl from Galway gained national attention for her strength and resilience in the face of adversity, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many. Saoírse died on Tuesday, as confirmed by her family this morning.
Saoírse was diagnosed with cancer in November 2019 after complaining of an injured ankle. In 2020, her leg was amputated due to an osteosarcoma tumor found in her tibia, which was deemed cancerous and life-threatening. Her story became widely known when she joined Ryan Tubridy on The Late Late Toy Show in 2020, where her battle against a rare form of bone cancer amazed everyone with her strength and resilience.
The loss of Saoírse has deeply affected her parents, Roseanna and Ollie, and her younger sister, Farrah-Rose. They shared the heartbreaking news, saying, “After a long, brave, and dignified battle, our hearts are shattered to tell you that our beautiful little Saoírse took her last breath in our arms on Tuesday.”
They also expressed gratitude to their supporters, saying, “Thank you to all of our wonderful fans for thinking about Saoírse and us over the past few weeks. Today, we also think of you because we know how much the country loved Saoírse and how she changed the lives of so many people.”
“Cancer, you took her away from us. You also took away our dreams and the life we had. Things will never be the same! Please give us some space as we go on our last and final trip with our beautiful girl, Farrah Rose and Mamma Dadda.”
President Michael D. Higgins and stars from across the entertainment industry have paid tribute to the beloved girl, whose story was highlighted on The Toy Show during the first year of their major charity campaign.
During her battle, Saoírse’s family shared a “devastating” health update in November of last year, revealing that her cancer had spread. After a recurring tumor was found in her left lung earlier in 2023, they described it as a “huge shock” that the cancer had spread to her other lung, marking Saoírse’s “biggest battle to date” as she underwent further chemotherapy.
In April, Roseanna reflected, “Little did they know that their world was about to fall apart again. To say we’re devastated just doesn’t cover it. It’s not fair that she’s been to war so many times and fought so hard.”
Ireland’s rugby team captain, Peter O’Mahony, expressed his condolences, stating, “I’m very sorry to read this. She was an inspiration.”
Kathryn Thomas of RTE shared, “Rosana, I’m so sorry. Your lovely daughter made our lives so much better. A small part of what she brought into your life. That smile is great. Thinking about all of you. Take it easy, little angel.”
Today FM DJ Declan Pierce wrote, “My beautiful friend. It breaks my heart so much. The best thing about my job is getting to know Saoírse through the radio show. From the bottom of my heart, I love you all the time.”
Singer RuthAnne expressed her sadness, saying, “Heartbroken. She was truly unique, and her bravery knew no bounds. I am so thankful that I met her and had the chance to sing with her. What an honor! That is something I will always treasure and hold close to my heart. Lots of love and light to everyone.”
Saoírse’s funeral will be held at St. Peter and Paul’s Church, Kiltullagh, on Sunday at 1.45 p.m. Her family also announced that “Saoírse will rest at home on Friday, March 8, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.”
They added, “From the Bullaun Church parking lot (H62 YH66), a bus service will leave. Please follow the stewards’ instructions and only use the bus service to get to the event.”
Saoírse’s legacy of courage and kindness will continue to inspire those who knew her and those who learned of her story. She leaves behind a message of hope and strength that will resonate with many for years to come.