Irish TV sensation Saoirse Ruane has tragically died at the age of 12 after a four-year battle with the disease, according to a statement from her family.
Her heartbroken mother Roseanna shared the heartbreaking message on Instagram when she was at a loss for words.
We regret to inform you that our beloved daughter Saoirse passed away on Tuesday after a brave, honorable, and protracted battle.
We would like to thank all of our wonderful followers for their kind thoughts and prayers for Saoirse and us over the past few weeks. We are also thinking of you all today, given how much Saoirse was loved across the nation and the impact she had on so many lives. Cancer, you stole her, our lives, and our hopes. Life will never be the same again.
The Late Late Toy Show actor was diagnosed with cancer in 2019 after claiming to have injured his ankle. In 2020, Saoirse had to have her leg amputated due to a potentially fatal osteosarcoma tumor in her tibia. “In memory of Saoirse Ruane, who died aged 12, President Higgins sends his deepest condolences to her family from Kiltullagh, Co. Galway,” the Irish president tweeted.
Saoirse’s strength and kindness were an example to all. Many of Saoirse’s dreams have already come true, such as visiting Disneyland and watching Manchester United play at Old Trafford.
Saoirse was tragically diagnosed with a second cancer in June 2022, requiring surgery to remove a lung tumor. For her mother, it was “unimaginable” to witness her daughter battling the disease again. In November 2023, Roseanna revealed that the cancer had spread from one lung to the other.
Saoirse is the bravest person we’ve ever met and only asked to decorate the Christmas tree after she got the terrible news last night. In other words, “This is what we do when we set up the decorations before [the] Toy Show.” “As always, we ask that you keep our brave and resilient girl in your prayers.
Tanaiste Michael Martin expressed her condolences on learning of Saoirse Ruane’s passing.
I will always remember my first impression of Saoirse in Croke Park with her mother Roseanna, seeing her beautiful smile and unwavering commitment to the GAA.
Following her debut on The Toy Show, former Late Late host Ryan Tubridy became close to Saoirse’s family.
He stated that “the world is poorer” without her. It is with the greatest pain imaginable that I have learned of the passing of my dear friend Saoirse Ruane.
“We hit it off when we first met. Her profile followed the nation fell in love with her, a charity was founded in her honor and she went on to improve and uplift the lives of hundreds of young Irish people.” selfless, humble, kind, cheerful and thoughtful child.” She was everything our country could and should have been, so her passing will help many of us put things right. “I send Roseanna, Ollie,, and Farrah Rose to a beautiful family whose world completely changed, my sincere condolences and all my love,” the statement read. Thanks to them for giving us all access to their incredible Sao̭rse.
“Saoirse’s absence has made the world a poorer place, but I hope the sparkle in her eyes never goes away.”
Saoirse’s funeral will be held at St Peter and Paul’s Church in Kiltullagh on Sunday at 1.45 pm.
Saoirse Ruane’s passing at the tender age of 12 left a deep impact on all who knew and admired her. Her remarkable courage, strength, and indomitable spirit, even in the face of immense challenges, inspired countless people throughout Ireland and beyond. Marked by a fierce battle with cancer, Saoirse’s journey has demonstrated a level of bravery far beyond her years. Her appearance on The Late Late Toy Show and her unforgettable smile not only endeared her to the nation but also created a wave of compassion and empathy that united people in their admiration for her perseverance.
From fulfilling her dreams of visiting Disneyland to witnessing her beloved Manchester United at Old Trafford, Saoirse’s unwavering determination to live life to the fullest has proven her indomitable spirit throughout the battle.
Even in her darkest moments, she focused on spreading joy—decorating the Christmas tree, for example—bringing light to those around her when she could easily choose to retreat into despair. This strength of character, especially during her second cancer diagnosis, will forever be a testament to her indomitable will.
Saoirse’s story reminds us all of the fragility of life and the importance of love, family, and community. Her family’s courage to share their journey with the world has allowed many people to connect with her story on a personal level, leaving behind a lasting legacy of hope and kindness. While her passing has undoubtedly left a void, Saoirse’s memory will continue to inspire acts of resilience, compassion, and empathy for years to come.
As her loved ones prepare to lay her to rest, Saoirse’s legacy of grace, courage, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all those she touched. The world may seem a little darker without her, but her story will continue to light up the lives of those who remember her. By worshiping Saoirse, she reminds us to cherish each moment and approach life’s challenges with the same tenacity and love that she embodied.