'Fierce and beautiful' Rosie, 5, passes away after brave cancer battle
She was described by her parents as a "little firecracker"
Rosie Hassall, aged four, is being treated for a rare brain cancer(Image: Handout)
A fun-loving five-year-old girl with an "infectious smile" has died after bravely battling an extremely rare and 'aggressive' brain tumour. Rosie Hassall, from Shavington, passed away peacefully at Claire House Children's Hospice earlier this month.
Back in May we reported that Rosie - described by her parents as a "little firecracker" - had been given a heartbreaking prognosis of just one year to live. The youngster had begun suffering from intense headaches and eye issues, where her eyes would suddenly move in the wrong direction, in November last year.
Just three days before Christmas, Rosie was diagnosed with an ultra-rare brain tumour, accounting for less than one percent of all diagnoses. The tumour, about the size of a kiwi, was found to be cancerous, inoperable and incredibly 'aggressive' after a biopsy. Doctors estimated that it had grown within a matter of days or weeks.
Rosie's family shared her story publicly in the hope it might increase awareness and potentially aid others in the future. In an obituary notice published in the Crewe Chronicle and on the Cheshire Live website, her family said: "Rosie aged 5 1/2 years and from Shavington passed away peacefully at Claire House Children's Hospice following an illness bravely fought.
"The much loved daughter of Charlotte and Stephan and loving sister to Charlie, Rosie will be sadly missed. She will be remembered for her infectious smile, her love of dancing and her giggle."
Her celebration of life service will take place at Crewe Crematorium Chapel on Tuesday (December 23) at 12.15pm. The family has asked that no black clothes be worn, and for people to wear something bright or sparkly.
Rosie Aldina HASSALL
Brain Tumour Research said Rosie would be "forever in our hearts". The charity said on its website: "We are grateful to Rosie (and her mum, Charlotte) who worked with us in April 2025 to share her story here. Sadly, she passed away in December 2025.
"We remember Rosie as we continue our work to raise awareness of this devastating disease and to fund research to help find a cure. She will be forever in our hearts."
A gofundme to support Rosie's family has raised almost £60,000 since being launched earlier this year. The family confirmed her passing in a post on the fundraising page. It said: "She was the most fierce, beautiful sweetheart and our hearts and lives are now broken. With the support of the hospice, we are making arrangements for her funeral.
"Rosie's journey is not over. She will have the best send off we can give her, and as promised we will continue to support and raise awareness. She will be celebrated in style. Thank you to each and everyone who has donated and supported us throughout this. Much love . Team H x"
You can donate here.