Tributes have been paid to a Northern Ireland teenager following her death after bravely battling a rare form of cancer. Katie Rose McKeown, who was only 14-years-old, passed away peacefully at her Armagh home, on Thursday, in the loving care of her family.
The popular schoolgirl was diagnosed with Stage 4 High-Risk Neuroblastoma at eight years old in March 2018, which she battled with tremendous courage. Katie Rose’s family raised tens of thousands of pounds as they sought alternative treatments abroad.
She is survived by her parents, Kevin and Una, older sisters Grace and Olivia, granny Patricia Mc Keown (Dungannon), uncles, aunts, cousins and the entire family circle.
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Her heartbroken parents announced her untimely passing on social media on Friday afternoon. In a statement, they said: "We regret to inform you our beautiful daughter Katie Rose (age 14) gained her angel wings yesterday peacefully at home surrounded by her family. We understand this devastating news will be a huge shock to many of her friends and followers on this page.
"As a family we tried our absolute best to never give up on seeking a cure for Katie Rose’s cancer, but sadly that all changed drastically 10 weeks ago. Katie Rose began to experience pain symptoms which resulted in spinal cord compression due to her disease progressing.
"Katie Rose was finally discharged from hospital six weeks ago, our family’s wish was to nurse Katie Rose at home where we know she was most happiest. We were honoured and privileged to be able to follow through with our final wish to care for Katie Rose at home alongside her two sisters, Grace and Olivia, and of course her beloved dog Marley.
"This has given us huge comfort and peace of mind. Please continue to keep our beautiful angel and family in your prayers as we endeavour to get through the next part of Katie Rose’s Journey."
Paying tribute, St. Patrick's College Dungannon said: "Very sad to hear of the passing of Katie Rose McKeown. A courageous and inspiring girl, much loved by her family and friends - such an incredible loss. We extend our deepest sympathies."
The committee and members of St Colmcille’s GFC, Grange also expressed deep sadness at the untimely passing of their friend and teammate, adding: "Katie Rose fought her battle with such bravery and courage and touched the hearts of so many in our community. We extend our sincere sympathies to Una, Kevin, Grace, Olivia and the McKeown and Mackle families."
Katie Rose will repose at her late home on the Moy Road from today (Friday) from 4pm to 9pm, tomorrow (Saturday) and Sunday from 12noon to 9pm.
House private on Monday morning please. Her funeral will leave the family home at 10.15am to the Church of St Colmcille, Knockaconey for 11am Mass with burial afterwards in adjoining Churchyard.
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