Young Irishwoman (25) dies suddenly in Tenerife after cancer diagnosis
An Irish bar worker described as a 'beautiful and kind human being' has died just three weeks after being diagnosed with leukaemia and Covid-19.
Samantha Kimene, 25, had been working at a pub in Tenerife in the Canary Islands when she had to be suddenly taken to hospital after falling ill.
After undergoing treatment, the Thurles woman could not be saved and passed away after a short battle with the illnesses.
Samantha Kimene (25).
In a heartfelt tribute posted on social media, the bar paid tribute after her 'heartbreaking' passing.
Samantha had been working at popular Irish bar Paddy O'Kelly's located in Playa de las Americas in the south end of the island.
"It's with a heavy heart that our colleague and friend, Sam has sadly passed away,' they said.
Samantha Kimene.
'She was a valued part of our team and will be deeply missed. A beautiful and kind human with the the biggest smile. We're still in shock and heartbroken
'Please keep her family in your thoughts during this difficult time.
'This is an official GoFundMe from her family to help raise money to get her back to Ireland with her family and friends. If anyone would like to donate then it will mean a lot.
Samantha Kimene.
Today's News in 90 Seconds - July 17th
'We will be organising a fundraiser to help too.
'Rest in Peace Sam. You will be greatly missed. Lots of love, your Paddy O'Kelly's family.'
A fundraising campaign has been launched by her uncle Arturs Kimene with the aim of raising funds to bring Samantha's body back to Ireland.
Around 80% of the target goal has been raised so far, with over €16,000 having been donated at the time of writing.
Her uncle says Samantha was 'loved by everybody' and the sudden speed of her death has come as a shock to her friends and family.
'All the people [in Tenerife] that I met, that she was working with, they're in absolute devastation,' he told the Irish Mirror. 'They're devastated that she's gone, they can't believe it.'
Anyone willing to donated to aiding the Kimene family and getting Samantha home can do so by contributing to the GoFundMe campaign.
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