HPV vaccine campaigner Laura Brennan has died aged 26.
She was diagnosed with cervical cancer stage 2B in December 2016.
She's since became a high-profile advocate for the HPV vaccine, saying she wouldn't have developed cancer if she'd had the vaccine herself.
She passed away at University Hospital Limerick, Dooradoyle today.
In a statement, the Brennan family said: "Laura was a light in the life of everyone who knew her; a wonderful daughter, sister and friend. We are lost without her.’
"We are all incredibly proud of the work she did in the last 18 months to help protect other young women like herself from the cancer that has taken her life today.
"Laura used her voice, her generosity and her energy to help parents to make informed choices and protect their daughters from cervical cancer.
The statement adds: "She wanted to make a difference, and use the time that she had to right what she felt was a great wrong."
In a recent video for the HSE, Laura explained: "The vaccine protects against HPV 16, and HPV 16 caused my cancer.
"When I got my diagnosis, I decided I would do anything to stop this from happening to anybody else."
"I wish the vaccine had been available to me, of course I do. Don’t get swayed by rumours about the vaccine’s safety – get the vaccine" Watch Laura Brennan's story. #ProtectOurFuture pic.twitter.com/ZgYem3i6TY
— HSE Ireland (@HSELive) March 18, 2019
Earlier this month, she welcomed news that the uptake figures for the HPV vaccine had increased by 20% in just over two years - saying she was "thrilled that people are listening".
Tributes
President Michael D Higgins led tributes to the 26-year-old campaigner.
He said: "Laura impressed so very many with her campaigning and her work as a patient advocate has had a real and positive effect on countless young women across the country.
"On behalf of the people of Ireland, I send my condolences to her family and friends, and to all those who have shared Ms. Brennan’s journey."
Health Minister Simon Harris expressed condolences to Laura's family and friends, saying he was saddened to hear of the passing of an "incredible young woman and a powerful campaigner".
He said: "Despite her illness, she continued her advocacy and thanks in no small part to her sheer determination, the uptake of the HPV vaccine has increased among young women. The State owes her a debt of gratitude.
"As a person, she was kind, funny and full of life. Her enthusiasm was infectious. Every time I met Laura or spoke with her, I was inspired by her. Amazing doesn’t do justice to her or her courage."
We are all deeply saddened to learn of Laura Brennan’s death, and we send our deepest condolences to her family and friends. #ThankYouLaura for all you have done. https://t.co/iFpiQh7W6p pic.twitter.com/W8Rxd2aocv
— HSE Ireland (@HSELive) March 20, 2019
Anne O’Connor, Interim HSE Director General, said: ‘We are all deeply saddened to learn of Laura’s death, and we feel immense gratitude and admiration for her and her family.
"Laura has defined courage and generosity as she supported our work to ensure girls get the HPV vaccine, and are protected from this terrible cancer.
"Laura came forward when she was first diagnosed with terminal cancer and our mission became hers. We know that Laura has made a difference, and will have saved lives through her great effort and her tremendous generosity of spirit."
Averil Power, Chief Executive of the Irish Cancer Society, said Laura's legacy is already clear, noting: "In many homes across the country, parents will have her to thank for saving their daughters’ lives."
CervicalCheck campaign Vicky Phelan, meanwhile, said Laura used her time campaigning so that others wouldn't suffer her fate.
#ThankYouLaura I am only now finding out about Laura's death. I have no words, just tears & emptiness at the loss of another young woman who used what was left of her time to campaign so that others would NOT suffer her fate. Please, please vaccinate your children #HPVvaccine https://t.co/lZpGQXUfsC
— Vicky Phelan (@PhelanVicky) March 20, 2019
