Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Vicky said, "The hardest part for me, it's not the dying, it's the leaving my children behind. That's what breaks my heart." Yesterday, at just past midnight, Vicky's battle with terminal cervical cancer ended, her young life ended, her life stolen by a vicious disease, her life stolen by profound failures of the State, of Government and of the HSE. Enormous and endless tributes flow now for this remarkable, irreplaceable woman. She was a study in resilience, determination and grace under pressure. No words of mine will fully capture the depth of her courage or of her love.

No words will fully capture the scale of devastation at her loss for Jim, Amelia, Darragh, Gaby, John and all those who loved her dearly. Ireland has lost one of its brightest stars in the firmament of noble women Ireland. Ireland must not forget. Ireland must change. Safe, respectful healthcare for mná na hÉireann was Vicky's battle cry. Let it echo from the rooftops. The women of Ireland thank you, Vicky. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h-anam.

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