Thank you for everything: Family pay glowing tribute to tragic Aaron

THE family of Aaron Devlin have paid a heartfelt tribute to their son and brother after he lost his battle for life this afternoon. 23-year-old Devlin, a newly qualified physiotherapist, was a precociously talented young footballer. The classy forward was a three-time Derry and one-time Ulster senior club championship winner with his club. He was rushed to Antrim Area Hospital on Friday and sadly, after a six-day battle with what is believed to have been a rare strain of meningitis which attacked his brain, he passed away this afternoon. In a touching tribute, Aaron's parents, brothers and sister praised his battle over the past six days and thanked him for "everything". "Following a characteristically hard-fought battle with a sudden illness, our son, brother and friend Aaron left us this afternoon. "This has been an unimaginably tough and dark time for us - and will continue to be. "The actions, words, prayers, kindness, and support from so many people has genuinely touched us. We may never be able to thank everyone for it, but please know that it has helped us realise just what an impact he made on this world in just 23 years. We have gained so much strength and pride from it. "We now hope that the many memories Aaron has given us will help us through the challenge that we must now face together. "Thanks Aaron, for the laughs, the tears, the smiles, the strength, the pride... for everything. Love, Mummy, Daddy, Ronan, Coilin, and Anna. X". Ballinderry Shamrocks posted the tragic news on Facebook, offering its condolences to the family and paying tribute to Aaron, who also represented Derry at senior, under-21 and minor level, and starred on MacRory Cup teams at St. Mary's Magherafelt. Aaron shone particularly brightly in Ballinderry's 2012 county final win, scoring two points and laying on a host of others in an inspired display. "It is with very deep sadness and sorrow that we announce the passing of Aaron Devlin this evening. "Our deepest sympathy to Carmel, Eugene, Ronan, Coilin and Anna. "From the first time you pulled the blue and white jersey over your shoulders Aaron you were one of us, you will always be one of us. "I'm sure your passing into heaven this evening would have been no ordinary entrance, it would have been done #dookiestyle. "Rest in peace Aaron," his club said.