Inverness mum ‘never, ever gave up’ in fight against leukaemia
Those who helped care for a young Inverness mum who lost her fight with an aggressive form of cancer have been praised for the support they provided during her and her family’s “incredibly difficult and heartbreaking journey.”
We reported earlier this week how Abbey Robertson (21), who lived in the Raigmore Estate in Inverness, died peacefully in the care of Highland Hospice on March 4.
She had endured a long-running battle against acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), a rapidly progressing blood and bone marrow cancer more common in younger children.
Speaking to The Inverness Courier her sister Chanelle revealed how the news of Abbey’s illness came out of the blue at what should have been one of the happiest times of her life, as she also paid moving tribute to her younger sibling.
“Abbey enjoyed doing her hair and make up; she enjoyed spending time with her family and friends,” she said.
“She had an absolute passion for being a mum.”
And she added: “Abbey was diagnosed in 2022. Abbey first became aware of her diagnosis after going to a routine hospital appointment after finding out she was pregnant.
“She had her bloods taken and the results came back telling her that her white blood cells were abnormal and they believed she had leukaemia.
“She was told that her type of cancer was serious and that doctors across the country were involved in her case.
“As a family, we were utterly devastated and so scared for her, but we all put on a brave face for her, although Abbey’s face was always braver.”
And she added, pointing out how Abbey’s young son has been left without his mum while still less than two years old: “Abbey did everything within her power to fight her cancer.
“She never, ever gave up.
“I would like to say thank you to the nurses and doctors who cared for Abbey during this incredibly difficult and heartbreaking journey.
“Specifically I would like to say my heartfelt thanks to Leanne Hearn, teenage and young adult cancer nurse specialist.
“Leanne cared for Abbey throughout her entire cancer journey, showing so much empathy and compassion towards my sister and our family. Her work cannot be understated.
“She and Abbey had a trusting relationship and I will be forever grateful for her support.
“When Abbey stayed at the Highland Hospice, she knew that she was being fully supported by incredible staff, who treated her with the utmost dignity and respect.
“The support we have all received as a family has been incredible and I will be forever grateful.”
An online fundraiser was launched to help with the costs of Abbey’s funeral after her passing.
With a target of £2500, almost £3400 had been raised by yesterday morning and her funeral is set to take place next Thursday (March 20) at 12.45pm at D Chisholm and Sons’ Funeral Home in Huntly Street, Inverness, thereafter heading to Kilvean Cemetery.
Dozens of tributes have already been paid to Abbey online.
Kayreen Melville said: “Rest in peace Abbey, I will never forget the time I got to spend with you when you stayed with us, you gave me the chance to see what it was like to have a daughter and I will always be grateful for that. Forever in our hearts.”
And one of her former teachers, Margo Fraser, said: “So sorry to hear this sad news - I taught Abbey for two years at MoL (Milton of Leys) Primary - she was always a happy, positive, smiling wee girl.”
Kar O'Neill said: “RIP Abbey, taken too soon, leaving behind a family who loved you so much.
“You were such a strong young woman and fought so hard, you are at peace now with your mam.”
Those attending the funeral are asked to bring a photograph of Abbey to be placed in a memory book.
Donations will also be taken at the door for Highland Hospice.
