A Rathcoole woman who has been fighting for her life in a South African hospital has tragically passed away.
Heather Cairns, 57, took a chest infection that turned into pneumonia and left her on life support while visiting family in the country.
Her sister Pat Hardman told Belfast Live on Wednesday they were hoping to see an improvement after unconscious Heather was fitted with a trachea alongside which she could also be fitted a feeding tube.
But sadly, that was not the case.
Patricia said doctors discovered Heather, who was also diagnosed with cancer while unconscious for two weeks, had contracted sepsis and was not responding to antibiotics.
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Tragically, the much loved grandmother passed away around 12 noon South African time today.
Pat said: "We are heartbroken.
"The Kevin Bell Trust said they would repatriate her for us but Kerry is going to have her cremation in South Africa and bring her home with her. She loved South Africa."
"She was generous and a bit daft - welcomed everyone into her house had an ever open door. She's such a loss to us all."
Family friends have also paid tribute to the former security guard on social media.
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One said: "Heather was one of the most genuine people I have ever met, she was never anything but kind to me and her door was always open, her home the friendliest of places.
"The world has lost someone incredibly special and irreplaceable. My heart aches for my best friend Kerry and aunt Patricia losing their mummy and sister so soon after Jock passing is tragic beyond words. The family have suffered so much."
Another added: "That’s terrible news to hear, so sorry for the family. Wishing them all the strength that they are going to need to cope in the coming weeks."
A third said they were thinking of the family at this heartbreaking time, adding: "Fly high Heather, looking down on those whose hearts are broken."
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Heather's death has hit the family hard on two fronts.
Her family must now find £27,000 to cover her hospital costs since her insurance company refused her medical claim.
Click here if you would like to help.
The Rathcoole woman's remains are expected to arrive home next week.
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