On the 10-year anniversary of her late younger sister Rosie’s death, Coleen Rooney has paid tribute to her.
Rosie died in 2013 at the age of 14 from Rett syndrome, a rare brain illness that causes significant disability.
Rett syndrome is a rare genetic illness that disrupts brain development, resulting in severe mental and physical disability, according to the NHS.
It is estimated that one in every 12,000 girls born each year is affected.
Coleen, 36, has turned to social media to pay tribute to her sister, who was adopted by her parents when she was two years old, sharing a beautiful family portrait with her husband Wayne Rooney.
Rosie is cuddled by her mother, Colette McLoughlin, in the shot, which was taken on a beach.
Coleen simply captioned the post: ’10 years today……We all love and miss you Rosie Mc 💞.’
The star’s fans were quick to send their own messages of condolences, with one writing: ‘Thinking of you all today, particularly mum and dad. Losing a child at any age is tragic. Rosie was surrounded by love and affection RIP.’
A second added: ‘Awww I can’t believe it’s 10 years, god bless you Rosie, sending love to you and all your family coleen.’
While a third penned: ‘Ten years where does the time go, Rosie was such a beautiful child. Thinking of you all today Col.’
Coleen’s mum Colette and dad Tony knew that Rosie was disabled when they adopted her but didn’t know the full extent of the incurable decision.
They wrote in a heartbreaking statement at the time of Rosie’s death: ‘Sadly our special angel Rosie, our much-loved daughter and sister, went to Heaven at 2.50 this morning at home where she was surrounded by her loving family.
‘Rosie was just 14 years old and fought a lifelong battle with Rett syndrome. Throughout her life she brought so much love and happiness to all our family and everyone who knew and met her.
‘She was such a strong little girl and an inspiration to us all. We shall cherish for ever the memories we have shared and the love she showed us each and every day of her life.
‘As a family we are heartbroken but we are blessed to have had her in our lives.’