The wider community in Kildare is today mourning the death of nine-year-old Ruairi McDonnell who has passed away after battling a rare illness.
The youngster from Clane was diagnosed with a degenerative and life-limiting neurological condition two-and-a-half years ago and his health battle was the subject of widespread support through the Roar for Ruairi campaign online.
Local clubs, businesses and groups were joined by celebrity supporters over the last two and a half years to help Ruairi's family deal with his treatment and home care. Those included Kerry All-Ireland winning footballer Aidan O'Mahony and the Irish rugby team who signed a jersey as a fundraising prize back in 2020.
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Tributes have been pouring in since his death on Wednesday, June 29. His family announced his death in a Facebook post on the Roar for Ruairi campaign page.
In a statement on behalf of the family, they said: "It is with great sadness that we wish to let you know that our brave little warrior Ruairí died peacefully in the loving arms of his mam and dad in the early hours of the morning of June 29th.
"We would like to express our sincere thanks to you for your help and support over the past the 2 ½ years and we will be forever grateful for the generosity we received.
"Ruairí was a true superhero, we will miss him dearly. May he rest in peace."
Further tributes from friends and those who followed his illness battle on the Roar for Ruairi page where he is described as a “beautiful little boy”.
His death notice on RIP.ie said he was a "beloved son of Ruth and Martin" and that Ruairí "passed peacefully at the family home after a long illness, bravely borne in the loving arms of his Mam and Dad."
“Very sadly missed by his parents, his sister Ciara, his brothers (and best pals) Tomás and Fionn, grandparents Kathleen, Eileen and Eugene, uncles, aunts, cousins, extended family, neighbours and friends. Rest in peace.”
His family have asked people who wish to show their respect with flowers to consider donating to Laura Lynn, where they can also leave their messages of condolences.
Ruairí was diagnosed with a degenerative and life-limiting neurological condition that his family said resulted in him losing his sight, speech and much of his cognitive ability.
The condition affects 120,000 people globally, with his GoFundMe explaining that the disease “has been rapid and relentless in its progress over the past 3-4 months”.
People shared their condolences with the family, with one person writing: “Absolutely heartbreaking news, condolences to all the family, R I P beautiful little boy Ruairi”.
A second person said: “My sincere sympathy to you all. Bless Ruairi and may he rest in peace. Very sad hearing this news x”.
A third commenter added: “My sincere and deepest condolences to all the McDonnell! You are very much in my thoughts and prayers! May your little warrior RIP”.
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