The heartbroken family of a Scots woman who died at the age of 40 have paid tribute to the 'awe inspiring' gran following a 20-year health battle. Gemma Butler, a double amputee, died on January 15 after suffering a massive heart attack on November 5.
Gemma, who suffered from maturity-onset diabetes, was rushed to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH) where she spent 10 weeks in intensive care .
She managed to pull through but two days after being discharged, her blood pressure dropped dramatically and she was readmitted. On January 15, Gemma, from Linwood, died surrounded by her loved ones.
The mum-of-three was remembered by loved ones as a 'real life superhero' who loved every second of her life and aimed to make people laugh until the very end, despite her health struggles.
Devastated sister Lynsey, 36, said: "Gemma's life had been tough but she was such a big character.
"She cheered everyone up and made everyone around her laugh. She had everyone in stitches, even on her death bed.
"She was the most charismatic and happy person, she was so full of life and was always laughing and made light of everything that happened to her over her short life.
"Gemma was always the life and soul of the party and her attitude to life was so refreshing."
Gemma's health first began to deteriorate after she lost her premature son Josh in October 2004 and she was diagnosed with renal failure soon after. In February 2005, dad Ian donated a kidney.
But following the successful transplant operation, Gemma had to have a Vitrectomy a year later and lost the sight in one of her eyes.
As a result of her diabetes, Gemma's health continued to deteriorate over the years as she suffered from infections in her toes and feet. In 2018, the mum made the brave decision to have her leg amputated to stop an infection spreading.
She learned how to walk with a prosthetic leg but in 2021, her other foot was infected and she had to have her second leg amputated.
Lynsey added: "Despite everything, she never let anything get her down and took it all in her stride.
"She was one a kind and will never be forgotten by anyone who knew her."
Gemma, mum to Sophie, 23, Zak, 12, Ava, 10 and gran to Oscar, four, and Reilly, one, had one last wish for her coffin to be carried in a horse and carriage, with a pink theme.
Pals of the mum have now launched a fundraising page to help pay for the funeral as they remembered superhero Gemma who lit up a room.
Writing on the page, friend Sarah-Claire Dahlstrom said: "Gemma's awe-inspiring battle with her health started over 20 years ago undergoing many surgeries & living with her illness with such dignity and grace and always with a smile on her face. Gemma was a real-life superhero and if Gemma's health was a battle she could’ve fought, she would’ve won.
"Despite her health problems, Gemma enjoyed every second of life. Being an amazing Mum Gran Sister and Daughter was everything to her. Her life was taken way too soon. Her memory will forever be in the heart of all those who loved her and her family. We will miss you always Gemma."
Donations to the fundraising page can be made by clicking here.
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