A mum died after "fighting like a warrior" alongside her family.
"Warrior princess" Mary Hassey, from Runcorn, died from an aggressive form of brain cancer at just 38. The mum-of-one was diagnosed with the cancer, called gliobastoma, 18 months ago in January 2022.
Mary's family have paid tribute to the graphic designer, who "battled" until her death. Her husband Matty and nine-year-old son Tommy have described her as a "Warrior Princess" and "a beacon of love and kindness in the lives of many".
A statement issued by Mary's family reads: "Affectionately known as the 'Warrior Princess', Mary was a source of inspiration and joy for all who had the privilege of knowing her.
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"Mary's journey began in the loving arms of her parents, Fran and Alison, who provided the foundation of strength and support that allowed her to flourish into the remarkable person she became alongside her brothers Christopher and Matthew.
"The fairytale romance between Mary and her husband, Matty Hassey, captured the hearts of many. Their love story was a shining example of a partnership that grew stronger with each passing day.
"Together, they built a picture-perfect young family, overflowing with love for their precious son, Tommy. Mary embraced her role as a devoted wife and mother with immeasurable happiness and fulfilment.
"However, fate had other plans, tragically cutting short the vibrant life that lay ahead for Mary. Undeterred, she faced her battles with unwavering strength, fighting like a true warrior alongside her husband, family, and closest friends.
"Those friends and family climbed mountains and ran marathons alongside many other staged events for the love of Mary. Mary's spirit radiated brightly, illuminating the lives of all those fortunate enough to know her.
"Mary's indomitable spirit will never grow old, serving as a constant reminder to embrace life with passion and joy. Mary's impact extended beyond her immediate circle.
"Colleagues remember her as a dedicated professional, always willing to lend a helping hand and brighten their day with her infectious smile. She was a cherished cousin, niece, and friend - a beacon of love and kindness in the lives of many."
Medics discovered Mary had a large brain tumour after she suddenly fell ill. She underwent an operation at the Walton Centre but surgeons were unable to completely remove the tumour and a biopsy led to the discovery that she had a grade four glioblastoma, Cheshire Live reports.
It is the second heartbreak to hit the family in recent years, with Mary's dad Fran O'Dwyer having died from Covid at the age of 63 during the first wave of the pandemic in early 2020. Fran was a popular Irish country singer songwriter who lived in Runcorn but hailed from County Down in Northern Ireland.
He wrote hits for fellow Irish country music artists including Brendan Shine and Joe Dolan. Paying tribute to his niece and calling for more support and funding for research into this form of cancer, Mary's uncle and Fran's brother Conn O'Dwyer said: "Mary sadly passed away with a brain tumour after a long 18 month battle.
"Tragically, Mary's passing highlights the devastating impact of brain tumours, which claim the lives of more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer.
"Despite this sobering reality, historically, only one per cent of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to combat this disease. Mary's legacy will serve as a reminder of the urgent need to address this issue and advocate for increased support and funding for brain tumour research."
