Heartbreaking tributes for ‘bright, brave & beautiful’ girl, 11, who died after ‘extremely aggressive’ cancer diagnosis

HEARTBREAKING tributes have poured in for a “brave” 11-year-old from Co Wicklow who passed away over the weekend.

Caoimhe Dylan Keenan was diagnosed with an “extremely aggressive and rare form of childhood” cancer in July of last year.

The Bray girl started chemotherapy just five days later as it was discovered that the Rhabdomyosarcoma had spread to her brain and lungs.

However, her family confirmed this week that Caoimhe had passed away surrounded by her family, close friends and pets on June 28, 2026.

She is survived by her “loving parents” Matt and Martina, siblings Cara and Jonathan and grandmothers Catherine and Geraldine.

The family also added that Caoimhe will be greatly missed by her beloved pets Willow and KitKat.

Mourners can pay their respects at Colliers Funeral Home from 4pm this evening.

And the little girl will be remembered at a 10:30am funeral mass tomorrow in The Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace, followed by a Committal Service at Mount Jerome Crematorium.

Ahead of the funeral mass tomorrow, the family have made an emotional request to honour Caoimhe.

They asked in her death notice: “The family invite everyone to wear bright and vibrant colours in honour of her fiery and energetic spirit.”

And a steady stream of tributes remembering that “energetic spirit” have poured in since Caoimhe’s passing.

One mourner said: “Caoimhe was the brightest spark and adored by all. Such fond memories of long days together in High Barnett.

“Hoping some day it will all make sense but for now she’s with her grandad and Dylan and others who will protect her. Sending so much love to you all. I can’t imagine your pain and my heart breaks for you.”

Another shared: “There are no words to express how I feel. I remember Caoimhe as a bubbly happy young girl – taken too soon.”

A third added: “I am so incredibly heartbroken for you all on the loss of your beautiful Caoimhe. A bright and loving soul taken far too soon.”

Local sports team Ardmore Rovers also shared: “Caoimhe was a much loved member of the Ardmore Rovers U12 Girls team, as well as a loved teammate and friend.

“She was warm company and slotted straight into the team so quickly, she will be forever missed.”

Many tributes also recalled the 11-year-old’s brave battle against her illness.

One person said: “There is no words that will ease the heartbreak and pain at the sad loss of your beautiful little angel! She was so brave and fought a hard battle!”

Another shared: “To know Caoimhe was to love her and by goodness did we love her. She showed so much strength and resilience over the last 12 months, she fought so hard.

“She was and always will be our warrior. Hope you get the best bed up there sweetheart.”

And another penned: “One of the bravest people I’ve ever met, rest easy.”

Caoimhe’s parents have expressed a heartfelt thank you to the staff of St John’s Ward in Crumlin, the North Wicklow Hospice team, the Keeley D Foundation, and the Gavin Glynn Foundation, who all treated the child over the last year.

They have requested donations be made to the Gavin Glynn and Keeley D Foundation in lieu of flowers.