Tributes to 'inspirational' cancer campaigner
BBCA family has said their hearts have been "broken into a million pieces" after the death of cancer campaigner Alice Greaves.
Greaves, from Old Dalby in Leicestershire, was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer when she was 24 and the disease eventually spread to her lungs and brain and became incurable.
Her family confirmed she died "peacefully" at the age of 27 on Monday and paid tribute to their "inspirational daughter, sister and partner".
Following her diagnosis, Greaves raised more than £250,000 for cancer charities, and previously said it was vital for young people to know how to spot the signs of cancer, and for them to be taken seriously when they did.
Her family said in an online statement: "Thankfully surrounded by love to the very end, she will be [the] shiniest star shining brightly.
"Whilst relieved she is now pain free and at peace, the devastation is unbearable right now, but with time we will hopefully be able to come to terms with the loss.
"We are forever thankful to all our family, friends, colleagues, acquaintances who have touched Alice's life during her 27 years."
Greaves found a lump in her breast aged 24, but was told by a doctor that she was "too young" for cancer.
She was determined to use her experience to help others by sharing her story on social media to challenge the myth that cancer only happens later in life.
She also took on several long-distance cycle rides to fundraise for the Leicester-based charity Hope Against Cancer, for which she was also an ambassador.
The charity paid tribute to Alice, describing her as "an incredible human being and an inspiration to so many".
"Her courage, determination, upbeat love for life, dedication to her family, friends and the causes close to her heart strengthen people simply by association, be that in-person or online," a statement from the charity said.
"Alice's love, light and strength will be felt forever."
The charity said Alice's family would be going ahead with this year's charity cycle ride in her memory.
Follow BBC Leicester on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.
