A brave little girl who died after she was born with half a heart has been described as an 'inspiration'.
Five-year-old Caitlin Wright, who suffered from a rare condition called Shone Syndrome, endured more than five open heart surgeries before her death on March 12.
The youngster, from the village of Brandon in County Durham, had wanted to become a doctor to help other sick children like herself, reports Chronicle Live.
But she fell in January when her blood pressure dropped during an operation, and tragically died in hospital after developing sepsis and a fungal blood infection.
Her heartbroken mum Nicky, who was at her side at the time, has now paid tribute to her "brave, beautiful, strong baby girl".
The 43-year-old said: "She made us all so proud. She fought until she couldn't fight any more. I don't know how I am supposed to ever get through this.
"She is now pain free and does not have to fight any longer. We have so many amazing memories from the last five years with Caitlin.
"She will be missed so much by so many people. We will never forget her."
Caitlin, a pupil at Brandon Primary School, had spent weeks in hospital fighting as hard as she could to stay with Nicky, her sisters Megan, eight, and Amelia, three, and her dad George.
Her family say that "nothing fazed her" and that despite her health problems, she always pushed herself to do everything her classmates and her sisters could, never wanting to be left behind.
Her teachers also described her as someone who fought hard not to be held back by her condition, calling her "our warrior princess".
Nicky, a part-time shop worker, also thanked medical staff who tried to save her daughter's life during her two-month hospital battle.
"Thank you to all the staff on [paediatric intensive care] for their support through the last eight weeks.
"Thank you to the doctors, surgeons, cardiac liaison nurses, physios, psychologist and every one who has sent so many prayers, love and well wishes."
Before her death, Caitlin's sisters were allowed to come in to the hospital for a sleep over, bringing a smile to her face.
She also received visits from clown doctors and performers dressed as princesses.
Nicky, a part-time shop worker, is now trying to raise funds for her daughter's funeral.
"I never in a million years believed that I would have to say goodbye to one of my babies," she said.
"We would love to be able to give her the send off she deserves."
You can donate to Nicky's appeal here.
