A tribute was paid to a popular former Belfast television journalist who died after a short illness.
Aiden Kennedy died a day after he announced on social media that he was returning home from a hospital period to receive palliative care.
Aiden has been a popular UTV news anchor for several years and has been a regular on television in homes in Northern Ireland.
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In her latest post on social media, she said: “So life has not gone well and I am as sick as I was when I went to the hospital, so I’m basically going home to die, but I’m getting palliative care. The children know. If you ever come through them, will you take care of them, they are the kindest, kindest and most caring children. “
Aiden is the fourth of four siblings to die and has previously spoken of her grief over the loss of her sister Fiona and brothers Dara and Rory.
After her death, there was an outpouring of grief from people in Northern Ireland who were heartbroken to hear of her loss.
Lena O’Neill, a lecturer in journalism at the University of Ulster, said: “I am so sad that the beautiful light Aidan Kennedy has left us. The world is a darker place without its light. She was such a kind, loving, caring soul that carried so much heartache in her life. My heart breaks for her Jacob and Eva and her mom and dad. “
U105 issued a brief statement paying tribute to their former colleague, saying: “Our thoughts and prayers tonight are with the family of our former colleague Aidan Kennedy. Aiden has been a member of our news team at the station for several years. May she rest in peace. “
Former UTV political editor Ken Reed said: “Tonight, the thought that Aiden Kennedy is no longer with us is just a broken heart. A decent soul who suffers too much. The news stunned many of us. We all need to take care. God bless her . REST IN PEACE.”
Lagan Valley MLA Emma Little-Pengeli said: “Absolutely devastated. My beautiful, funny, sweet friend Aiden died. I will miss him terribly. We met 22 years ago when we shared a room for the summer in DC and we became close friends.
“Goodbye beautiful girl.”
Southern Belfast councilor Simas De Faoit said: “I was heartbroken by this tragic news this morning for such a good soul. Mom watched Aiden, Dara, and Fiona when they were children. Aiden was such a bright light that she had experienced so much. My thoughts are with Noel, Maura, Jacob and Eva. “
Dermot Devlin, a campaign for the rights of people with disabilities, paid tribute, saying: “I was very sad to hear about Aiden’s death. We often had phone calls late at night talking about what was happening in the world and in our lives. We first met for lunch in March. I didn’t know this would be the only time. RIP. “
A GoFundme page has been launched to support Aiden’s family during this tragic moment.
If you want to donate, please follow this link.
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