The 12-year-old girl who inspired the annual Toy Show Appeal has died after a battle with cancer.
Saoírse Ruane who was from Galway appeared on the Toy Show in 2020 and explained her struggle having been diagnosed with a rare form of the disease, an osteosarcoma tumour on her fibula, in 2019.
The brave girl had to have her right leg amputated but ultimately passed away after being diagnosed with cancer for a fourth time.
The public, moved by her story, donated €6 million in a matter of hours and since over €17.5 million has been raised by the Toy Show’s annual appeal.
“You changed many, many lives by being a very special, important person.”
Rest in Peace, Saoírse. pic.twitter.com/tIdqpQF3Gd
— The Late Late Show (@RTELateLateShow) March 7, 2024
During her appearance on the show, ex-host Ryan Tubridy told Saoírse that because of her over one million people had been helped through the charitable donations.
Posting on Instagram, the family said “beautiful little Saoírse” passed away after a “long courageous and dignified battle”.
They expressed gratitude to their “lovely followers for holding Saoírse and us in your thoughts these past few weeks.”
“We think of you all today also as we know how much Saoírse was loved by the nation and the effect she had on so many people’s lives.” they said.
“Cancer you stole her from us, the life we had and our dreams. Life will never be the same!”