Shanade loses battle with cancer

The seven-year-old Invercargill girl who captured the hearts of the city through her battle with an incurable brain tumour has died.

Shanade Tallentire died at home surrounded by family and friends on Wednesday night.

She was diagnosed on August 27 with a diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma – an incurable and destructive brain tumour. The tumour grew in the part of the brain that controlled Shanade's central nervous system.

The young St Patrick's School pupil's plight captured the sympathies of New Zealand and her family was flooded with support.

More than $18,000 was raised to send Shanade and her family on a memorable trip to Auckland Zoo before the youngster became too sick, and flights, accommodation and transport were also donated.

Television personality Paul Henry paid for the family to stay at Auckland's SkyCity Hotel, and also offered them gold passes to the hotel's movie theatre.

Shanade's mother Nancy Bell said at the time the generosity of the Southland public had been amazing.

A celebration of Shanade's life will be held at Club Southland at 2pm on Monday.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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Kim Spady   #1   08:34 am Nov 21 2009

So very, very sorry that this terrible disease continues to take our children.

We hold this family closely and share in their grief.

Kim Spady www.carepages.com/carepages/keepingupwithcaleb www.JustOneMoreDay.org

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