Saoirse Ruane mam’s heartbreaking ‘return’ as ‘quick glance’ moment ‘broke her’

Saoirse Ruane’s mam has shared the moment that ‘broke’ her as she made a ‘heartbreaking’ return to her daughter’s school this week.

Roseanna Ruane, mother of beloved RTE Toy Show star Saoirse who passed away from cancer back in March 2024, paid a visit to her daughter’s school in Kiltullagh on Thursday.

The visit marked pupils’ last day of national school before the summer break – with September bringing the major transition to high school.

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However while it was a special moment for Roseanne to see and speak to Saoirse’s school pals, she couldn’t help but think about the future that was taken away from her and the rest of the pupils.

In an emotional post on social media, Roseanne recalled thinking of the ’empty chair’ that the class would see next year, describing it as ‘literally heartbreaking’.

The post read: “It’s not Goodbye, it’s see you later. Today I went to Saoírse’s school to visit her class and wish them well as they prepare to leave NS and move onto the next big chapter in their lives.

“It’s a BIG deal, leaving their safe space, familiar surroundings and the teachers/friends they have known 8 years. On arriving I found their classroom empty so I had a quick glance and that’s when I stumbled upon the attached photo. This both broke me and relieved me to see Saoirse at her happiest in school. Beside her photo three candles that are lit daily and her special prayer (Our Lady of Clonfert).

“Gosh they really are the best kids, they each had a big hug for me when I met them and I even got another when leaving. There was lots of tears but there was also lots of laughter, reminiscing and banter! Who knew Saoírse loved to tell ghost stories.

“We chatted about the schools they are moving to, their stand out memories of Saoírse and of course other fun stuff such as cutting the turf and Man United. It can’t have been easy on them losing their classmate. It’s easy to get wrapped up in our own pain but when I try think about their pain of having an empty chair in their classroom, it’s literally heartbreaking.

“I reminded them that in life they’ll always have somewhere to go when life gets tough or if they need to chat! Our door is always open and as we continue through life we’d love to hear about what they go on to do after school & maybe college. We talked about the importance of not forgetting friends who started with them and to check in on them from time to time as sometimes some of us struggle. No problem is too big or small & between us all we’ll solve it together. We have a great community.

“Most importantly I assured them Saoirse would be always listening and to chat to her. I encouraged them to call to her garden and tell her their news, even when they are much older. I’m so grateful to their teacher and principal for allowing me this time with them today, I’ll carry it in my heart forever. Finally, Miss Harmen, you say you feel lucky to have had the privilege of teaching Saoírse, but she was truly blessed to have you.”

Saoirse’s heartbroken mother also shared how she was “loved more than words” in a video posted on her Instagram story at the end of May 2024.

As the family try to come to terms with their loss, they’re taking it day by day with Roseanna recently revealing a note that was left in flowers to commemorate Saoirse.

The note has a heartwarming message for the family which showed how much people miss Saoirse.

The note read: “We miss you so much Saoirse. Fly high we see you and feel you around so often. Our angel forever more.” Accompanying the video, Roseanna added: “Saoirse you are loved beyond words.”

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