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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Andrew Robinson & Tim Hanlon

Family's pride at 'kind and selfless' daughter, 15, who died from rare cancer

A mum has told how her 'kind and selfless' 15-year-old daughter took her cancer diagnosis "on the chin" and her family are proud at her courage she showed in the face of the illness to the end.

Phoebe Gibson died at home in Hartshead Moor, near Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, surrounded by her family last Sunday after first being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in 2019.

Her mum, Philippa, said Phoebe, who loved sports and animals, had faced her illness with courage and without asking "why me?"

The teen, who went to Brighouse High School, had been diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare type of cancer, in 2019 after she began complaining about pains in her leg, reported YorkshireLive.

She underwent painful treatment and then continued to live life to the full after having a leg amputated, but sadly the cancer returned.

Phoebe worked at the family business, Harefield Farm Shop and took part in a Duke of Edinburgh challenge that involved mountaineering and camping while she also enjoyed horse riding.

"All through her treatment, she was so positive - we all were. Not once did we ever think this would be the outcome," said her mum.

Philippa, who runs PM Gibson School of Theatre Dance in Scholes, Cleckheaton, said her daughter had been a sporty girl who had loved dancing, cross country running, horse riding, rugby, and skiing.

She had also organised a baking sale event at the dance studio which had raised around £7,000 for charity.

"She was completely kind and selfless," said Philippa.

"She did look out for other people and never complained about losing her leg. Never once did she say 'why me?'

"She took it on the chin and got on with it. We are all incredibly proud of her. We have had so many cards and flowers. We have had so many messages we have not got through them all. It is heart breaking to read that people just loved her."

Phoebe had a love of animals and her dream job was to be a presenter on the BBC's Countryfile.

Her family and friends are now working towards setting up a "mini zoo" beside their farm shop so customers can see various farm animals up close, which would be called Phoebe's Farm.

The project is being organised by her parents, Philippa and Michael, and Phoebe's brother Tobias, 17, and sister Imogen, 20.

On Monday the PM Gibson School of Theatre Dance posted its own tribute to Phoebe, saying: "It is with the deepest sadness that we write this post, Phoebe Rose passed away yesterday after a long fight with cancer.

"Our thoughts are with Philippa, Michael, Imogen and Tobias at this terrible time and all our love and prayers are with them. Sleep tight beautiful girl and enjoy your time with Nana and Grandad. We love you Phoebe."

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