Parents Honor ‘Beautiful Angel’ Katie Rose McKeown After Her Passing
Katie Rose McKeown, 14, passed away peacefully at home, leaving her family and community heartbroken.
Katie Rose McKeown, Armagh, Northern Ireland, neuroblastoma, cancer, tribute
Armagh: Katie Rose McKeown passed away peacefully at home on Thursday. She was just 14 years old and had been battling stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma since 2018.
Her family shared the heartbreaking news on social media, where they had been updating everyone on her journey. Her parents, Kevin and Una, expressed their sorrow, saying their beautiful daughter gained her angel wings surrounded by family.
They acknowledged how shocking this news would be for her friends and followers. The family fought hard for a cure, but things took a turn for the worse about ten weeks ago.
Katie Rose started experiencing severe pain, which led to spinal cord compression as her condition worsened. She was finally able to come home from the hospital six weeks ago, where she felt happiest.
Her family was grateful to care for her at home, alongside her two sisters, Grace and Olivia, and her beloved dog, Marley. This brought them comfort during such a tough time.
They asked everyone to keep Katie Rose and their family in their prayers as they navigate this difficult journey. Katie Rose’s funeral is set for Monday, starting from their home to the Church of St Colmcille’s for Mass.
Katie Rose was a former student at St Patrick’s Primary School in Armagh. The school remembered her vibrant spirit and quick wit, saying her early years were filled with fun and adventure.
Even after her diagnosis in Primary 3, her strength inspired everyone around her. She will always be remembered fondly by those who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Local sports clubs also paid their respects. Crossmaglen Rangers expressed their sadness over her untimely passing, and the City of Armagh NI Supporters’ Club shared their condolences with the McKeown family.