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.
