‘Totally heartbroken’ – Parents’ emotional tribute to ‘brave’ & ‘brilliant’ girl, 4, who died from aggressive cancer

HEARTBREAKING tributes have poured in for a “brilliant” four-year-old girl who died after a brave cancer battle.

Blathnaid Ni Mhaoilmheanna, from Belfast, passed away peacefully in hospital surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday. 

Little Blathnaid was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour in May 2025.

She underwent emergency surgery to remove the tumour and had several hospital visits. 

Unfortunately the tumour returned three weeks later.

Surgeons quickly removed the new tumour along with some of her healthy brain tissue to allow space in case of rapid regrowth.

Blathnaid then underwent intense radiotherapy and continued to fight every day. 

A fundraiser was launched for her, raising over £207,000 (€237,511), to fund specialist immunotherapy treatment in Germany.

It said: “Blathnaid represents the best of us and her personality is best summed up by asking her favourite colour – all the colours in the rainbow.”

In 2025, Blathnaid’s parents had their wedding early to make sure she was able to join their special day along with her sister.

Her parents said they are “totally heartbroken” and she will be forever loved.

They said: “Our Blathnaid passed away this morning. We are totally heartbroken and so incredibly proud of our brilliant girl who lifted our spirits every minute until the end. 

“Our baby girl’s bravery in the face of such darkness has left a mark of beauty and dignity on the world that will never leave. May her wee heart have peace. 

“She will be loved, missed and remembered forever by Mamai, Dadai, Duailtin and our whole clann.”

FAMILY’S REQUEST

The family have requested only family flowers be sent please or donations, if so desired, made to Oscars Kids Ireland.

Tributes poured in online for the “beautiful” little girl.

One person said: “Sincere condolences to Blathnaid’s parents, grandparents and the whole family circle. Wishing you all peace and comfort in the days ahead.”

Another said: “Beautiful wee angel rest in perfect peace. Look over your mummy, daddy, sister and all your family.”

One mourner shared: “Condolences to her loving family. May God give you the strength to get through the next few days and weeks ahead.”

While another added: “Deepest sympathy with the entire family at this devastating time. RIP beautiful Blathnaid.”