Heartbroken friends and family have paid tribute to a “bubbly and caring” 24-year-old who suddenly died at home this weekend.
Jessica McFarland, from Glengormley in Co Antrim, struggled through difficult times in her life but was known for the happiness she brought to others she put first.
She passed away on Saturday in the home of her grandfather who had adopted her at a young age.
Jessica's cousin Shannon Hardy told Belfast Live her family were devastated by her loss.
She said: "Jessica was a very bubbly and happy girl who always tried to brighten people's day and bring a bit of joy into their lives.
"Sadly though she had been struggling with her own demons and addictions after falling in with the wrong crowd, but we never imagined that we would lose her like this and so young.
"We are just happy she passed at home with family and was not sleeping on the streets or in a hostel.
"In the past few weeks she had been trying to get the help she needed to get over her addictions, and had done so in the past, but sadly she was not able to get it.
"We just wish that we could have done more to help her and we are all heartbroken she is gone."
Jessica's friend Abigail Molyneux added she was one of the "kindest people she had ever met" and had always been available to help her through her own struggles.
She said: "Jessica was so kind and caring and always put everyone she knew before herself. Anytime I ever needed her she was there for me.
"She was always very happy and would have done anything for anyone, and I wish she thought about herself more and how much that she meant to people.
"She had been struggling with some issues in the past few weeks but had been trying very hard to overcome them but the help and support was just not available for her.
"I only saw her a couple of weeks ago in Belfast city centre when we had a lovely conversation where she boosted my spirits and helped me cope with the loss of family and friends and it is terrible she is no longer here with us and she will be sorely missed."
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