THE death of brave cancer victim Gemma Feeney should not be in vain.

Brave is a word often used when people die after fighting a long illness. Yet in the case of 29-year-old Gemma it is entirely appropriate.

Gemma, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2002, never gave up and, throughout her appeal to raise funds to pay for treatment, always had a smile on her face.

Her father, Tom, said that even when she was given the devastating news that her tumours were quickly spreading, she never complained or lost her sense of humour.

He said he had never known anyone as brave as Gemma. We think all those who knew her, or followed her progress, will agree that Gemma was a special person whose bravery and love of life should prove an inspiration to everyone.