Brave Becky, 11, loses her battle with cancer

An 11-year-old girl honoured for her bravery in battling cancer has lost her fight against the disease.

Becky Macauley, who wrote a book about her experiences called The Little Girl with the Big Headache, died last Friday.

The fourth-class student from Ashling Heights, Raheen, Limerick, was first diagnosed with a brain tumour in Apr 2011 and had to undergo surgery and chemotherapy. Last May, a second tumour was discovered and she had to undergo further surgery.

During her time in Beaumount, St Luke’s and Crumlin’s Children’s Hospitals in Dublin, Becky kept a diary which was later published. Over 200 copies have been sold and €1,000 has been raised for the children’s oncology fund at the Mid-Western Regional Hospital.

Last June, Becky along with cancer survivor Bronagh O’Neill, 15, were both honoured by Limerick County Council. At the civic reception, Becky said writing was “more fun” than school work and was planning her next book.

Becky is survived by her sister Rachel, and parents Michael and Mary.

Mass of the angels will take place at noon today at Raheen Church.

Cremation will take place afterwards in the Island Crematorium in Cork.