Wirral hospice offers support to Coleen Rooney and her family following the death of her younger sister Rosie

Jan 9 2013 by Helen Hunt, Birkenhead News

THE WIRRAL hospice where Coleen Rooney’s sister stayed paid its own tribute to the brave youngster.

Rosie McLoughlin, who was 14, passed away on Saturday surrounded by her loving family after a lifelong battle against a rare and devastating illness.

A statement from Claire House said: “The death of a child is a very difficult and sad time for all families.

“The team at Claire House send their love to Rosie’s family and are thinking of them all at this sad time and will continue to support the family in the coming days and months.”

Heartbroken Coleen has paid her own tribute to the youngster, who was adopted by Coleen’s mum and dad Colette and Tony when she was two.

Rosie had Rett Syndrome – a debilitating condition caused by a fault in the chromosomes, which left her needing round-the-clock care.

Coleen, 26, and her younger brothers Jo and Anthony, cut short a holiday in Barbados to fly back to Merseyside l after learning Rosie’s health had worsened.

Coleen, who chose Rosie as her chief bridesmaid for her 2008 wedding to football star Wayne, said: : “Thank you so much for all your lovely messages and kind words. We are absolutely heartbroken to have lost our angel Rosie.

“So glad we ended our holiday short, due to her deteriorating & we was able to spend the last few days together with her and our family! Sleep tight Rosie Mc x”

Coleen added: “We love you more than words can say.”

Rosie’s illness meant she spent much time at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital and at Claire House children’s hospice.

A statement issued on behalf of Coleen, Wayne and the McLoughlin family said: “Sadly our special angel Rosie, our much-loved daughter and sister, went to heaven at 2.50am this morning [Saturday] at home where she was surrounded by her loving family.

“Throughout her life she brought so much love and happiness to our family and everyone who knew her and met her. She was such a strong little girl and an inspiration to us all.”

The statement praised staff at Alder Hey and Claire House.