There has been an outpouring of tributes following the death of Vicky Phelan earlier today.
Ms Phelan, who was 48, was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2014 and died in the early hours of this morning at Milford Hospice in Limerick.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin called her a woman of “extraordinary courage and integrity”.
Tipperary TD Alan Kelly, a friend of Vicky’s over the last 5 years, says Vicky courageously continued to fight for what was right for her and the women of Ireland right up until the very end.
She empowered everyone in Ireland to think differently about their health, to ask questions and fight for the best treatments and health service that everyone deserves.
In April 2018, she settled a High Court action with Clinical Pathology Labs US, without admission of liability.
She had undergone a smear test in 2011 which showed no abnormalities however an internal Cervical Check audit found the original smear check result to be wrong.
Ms Phelan refused to sign a non disclosure agreement with the HSE which brought the issue to public attention leading to the Scally Independent investigation.
It also led to the establishment of the 221+ support group and a State apology.
Ms Phelan is described as a courageous, determined, authentic woman who selflessly & tirelessly worked to make life better for others.
Charlie Bird posted a message today saying this whole country should be in mourning at the passing of this remarkable human being. My heart is broken. My hero is gone.
Vicky was awarded the Freedom of Limerick in a special ceremony in February of this year.
Ms Phelan is survived by her children, Amelia and Darragh, husband Jim.
