HEARTFELT tributes have flooded in after Irish schoolboy Joshua Martin passed away from cancer yesterday evening.
The 15-year-old from Donaghadee in Co. Down died on Monday, but his Christian faith and optimism in the face of illness inspired many.
Josh was diagnosed with cancer on Christmas Eve 2014, but continued to study for his GCSEs and live as normal a life as possible.
In 2015, an online campaign to show support for the teenager – #prayforjosh – went viral online, while a large billboard displaying the slogan was erected locally in Holywood.
The hashtag was shared by well-wishers from around the world throughout his illness.
High profile names such as golfers Rory McIlroy and Sergio Garcia as well as former Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and Piers Morgan all sent messages of support to Josh and his family.
In a statement on her Facebook on Monday evening, Josh’s mum Kim Martin said: "We are devastated beyond words to tell you that our beautiful son passed away this evening.
"Joshua was the most amazing young man, brave and mature beyond his years.
"His life and testimony touched hundreds of thousands of people worldwide and we are so very thankful that the power of God touched him in a way that many people don't experience in a lifetime.
"While we are heartbroken, we have a deep peace knowing that Joshua is with His Heavenly Father in glory.”
She added: "To all of you, our friends and family, who have loved us, supported us, and journeyed with us, we want to say thank you. Funeral arrangements will follow. Please note the house is strictly private."
Tributes to the brave teen poured in on social media.
Bangor Elim Church, where Josh’s dad Tim worked on the pastoral staff, said "Such heartbreaking news tonight. Josh's courage, bravery and determination to live a normal life despite his illness was truly inspirational."
Bangor Elim Youth added: "We are heartbroken by the news that our much loved Josh Martin passed away tonight.
"Josh was an integral part of Bangor Elim Youth - he was brave, enthusiastic, and had an inspiring outlook on life. His love for Jesus was incredible & while we break our hearts, we know he is now with Jesus.”
One person posted: “So sorry to hear that, didn't know him but every picture I seen of him he always had a smile on his wee face he is in a better place and will suffer no more.”
Another said: “Please know that you are all in my thoughts. I'm so glad to have met Josh that day and he was really a one in a million young man.”
