The parents of Armagh schoolgirl, Katie Rose McKeown, who passed away on Thursday, aged 14, have spoken of the “comfort” and “peace” they feel with having been able to care for their “beautiful angel” at home.
Katie Rose’s parents, Una and Kevin announced her death on ‘Katie Rose’s Journey’ – a Facebook page where Katie Rose had built a substantial and supportive community.
They said she had “gained her angel wings” peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family and understood that the news would be “devastating” and a “huge shock” to many of her friends and followers of her journey.
Related: Heartbreak at loss of brave Armagh schoolgirl Katie Rose following long battle with illness
Of their unwavering commitment to their daughter in her final months, they added: “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 ten 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.”
Katie Rose’s will repose at her late home from today (Friday 10) from 4pm to 10pm, tomorrow Saturday and Sunday 12noon to 10pm.
House private on Monday morning.
Her funeral will leave the family home at 10.15am to the Church of St Colmcilles, Knockaconey for 11am Mass, burial afterwards in the adjoining Church yard.