An "amazing" teenager with an "infectious smile" has died at the age of 16.
Ffion Davies died at her home in Holywell, Flintshire, on August 18 after a brave battle with cystic fibrosis - a genetic condition that tends to get worse over time and shortens life expectancy. Doctors and nurses from Alder Hey Children 's Hospital were among those to attend Ffion's funeral last Friday, September 9, to pay their respects.
The 16-year-old, who spent her life in and out of hospital, was remembered for her bravery and unwavering strength as she fought health issues caused by the genetic disorder, North Wales Live reports.
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Tributes to Ffion were led by her uncle, Liam Thorley, who said: "She was such an amazing, family-orientated girl, and had the most infectious smile you could ever see. She was in and out of hospital her whole life but the way she dealt with it was just absolutely amazing - she was so brave.
"She did so much to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust to help other people battling it - that's just the sort of person she was." Ffion's family and friends gathered outside her house to release balloons following her death, which Liam said "just goes to show how much she was loved."
Thanking the local community for the support they have shown his family, Liam said: "So many people came to pay their respects at the balloon release and her funeral last Friday, it was amazing. The Ship Inn in Greenfield put on a huge spread for everyone after the funeral, and they wouldn't accept a penny from us for it.
"We had nurses and doctors from Alder Hey and Ty Gobaith Hospice come to the funeral. They deserve a medal for all the work they do."
Another of Ffion's uncles, Nigel Thorley, also paid tribute to the teenager, writing: "Her struggle with cystic fibrosis has come to an end. She is now free and can breathe deeply and peacefully.
"I will miss her every day of my life and be so thankful I was blessed to have her for the 16 years I did. What a wonderful spirit she is! Sleep tight Ffion."
Alongside family tributes, hundreds of messages poured in from people who had been touched by Ffion's story. One person wrote: "I'm so so so sorry to read this. I have no words, absolutely devastated for you all.
"She was such a wonderful human being. Taken far too soon. My heart breaks for you all." Another wrote: "Absolutely heartbreaking news. My deepest condolences to you all. Fought with dignity and grace throughout and has been an inspiration to all, RIP cariad."
In a statement, Ysgol Treffynnon paid tribute to the high school pupil, writing: "As a school community we are devastated by the sad news of Ffion’s passing. Ffion was a beautiful soul who was loved by her peers and teachers alike, her warm smile will be missed terribly.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Ffion’s family at this incredibly sad time." Ffion's headteacher, John Weir, added: “Ffion was a wonderful young person. Despite the challenges she faced, she was strong, happy, polite, and hardworking. She demonstrated a strength of character that we can all only aspire to.
"Ffion was loved by her friends and will be greatly missed and never forgotten by all who knew her. My lasting recollection will be Ffion’s smile, it could melt your heart. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.”
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