The family of a mum-of-one from Cheshire who passed away 18 months after receiving a devastating cancer diagnosis have described her as a ‘warrior princess’ and a ‘source of inspiration’.
Mary Hassey, 38, was diagnosed with an aggressive type of brain cancer called glioblastoma in January 2022. She sadly passed away on Sunday (July 2).
Medics discovered that Mary, who was a self-employed graphic designer, had a large brain tumour after she suddenly fell ill. She underwent an operation but surgeons were unable to completely remove the tumour.
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A biopsy led to the heartbreaking discovery that she had a grade four glioblastoma, reports Cheshire Live. Mary, from Runcorn, was married to Matty and had a son Tommy, nine.
Her family said in a statement: "Affectionately known as the 'Warrior Princess', Mary was a source of inspiration and joy for all who had the privilege of knowing her. Mary's journey began in the loving arms of her parents, Fran and Alison, who provided the foundation of strength and support that allowed her to flourish into the remarkable person she became alongside her brothers Christopher and Matthew.
"The fairytale romance between Mary and her husband, Matty Hassey, captured the hearts of many. Their love story was a shining example of a partnership that grew stronger with each passing day.
"Together, they built a picture-perfect young family, overflowing with love for their precious son, Tommy. Mary embraced her role as a devoted wife and mother with immeasurable happiness and fulfilment.
"However, fate had other plans, tragically cutting short the vibrant life that lay ahead for Mary. Undeterred, she faced her battles with unwavering strength, fighting like a true warrior alongside her husband, family, and closest friends.
"Those friends and family climbed mountains and ran marathons alongside many other staged events for the love of Mary. Mary's spirit radiated brightly, illuminating the lives of all those fortunate enough to know her.
"Mary's indomitable spirit will never grow old, serving as a constant reminder to embrace life with passion and joy. Mary's impact extended beyond her immediate circle.
"Colleagues remember her as a dedicated professional, always willing to lend a helping hand and brighten their day with her infectious smile. She was a cherished cousin, niece, and friend - a beacon of love and kindness in the lives of many."
No date for a funeral has been set yet, but the family have already expressed wishes for mourners to wear bright colours and to "embrace happiness" in a bid to honour Mary’s "vibrant spirit and celebrate her life".
No funeral date has yet been set, but Mary's family said they wanted mourners to wear bright colours and to "embrace happiness" to honour her "vibrant spirit and celebrate her life".
They said: "It is a beautiful testament to her desire to spread joy and remind us all to live life to the fullest. As the community bids farewell to Mary, they remember her as a princess, daughter, sister, wife, mother, cousin, niece, friend, and colleague.
"The void left behind by her absence will be filled with cherished memories. Although she may no longer be with us in the physical realm, Mary's spirit will live on, inspiring us all to cherish every precious moment and love with the same radiance that defined her."
Her family added that they wished to thank the doctors and nurses and the caring staff at Halton Haven Hospice in Runcorn for all they did to support Mary.
Another statement from the family read: "Family wish to express their appreciation to the doctors and nurses of NHS and a special thank you to the wonderful caring staff at Halton Haven Hospice, as a family we are more grateful to you than you'll ever know. We will never forget your support and kindness. Mary forever young."
A close friend also paid tribute, saying: "We will forever hold Mary in our hearts, her presence lingering like a gentle breeze in our memories."
It is the second heartbreak to hit the family in recent years, with Mary's dad Fran O'Dwyer having died from Covid at the age of 63 during the first wave of the pandemic in early 2020. Fran was a popular Irish country singer songwriter who lived in Runcorn but hailed from County Down in Northern Ireland. He wrote hits for fellow Irish country music artists including Brendan Shine and Joe Dolan.
Paying tribute to his niece and calling for more support and funding for research into this form of cancer, Mary's uncle and Fran's brother Conn O'Dwyer said: "Mary sadly passed away with a brain tumour after a long 18 month battle. Tragically, Mary's passing highlights the devastating impact of brain tumours, which claim the lives of more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer.
"Despite this sobering reality, historically, only one per cent of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to combat this disease. Mary's legacy will serve as a reminder of the urgent need to address this issue and advocate for increased support and funding for brain tumour research."
