Inspirational Sonny Lang dies after battle with cystic fibrosis

Tributes have been paid to a Yorkshire woman who has lost her battle with cystic fibrosis at the age of just 23.
beautiful: Sonny Lang, who has died at the age of 23 after a lifelong battle with cystic fibrosis.beautiful: Sonny Lang, who has died at the age of 23 after a lifelong battle with cystic fibrosis.
beautiful: Sonny Lang, who has died at the age of 23 after a lifelong battle with cystic fibrosis.

Sonny Lang, from Tadcaster, died in hospital yesterday morning.

In an emotional Facebook post, her mother, Anna-Marie Clark, said: “No words, no words can even begin to describe the shattered hearts and souls that we now have. Breathe easy now our beautiful, beautiful angel, you’re finally free.”

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Ms Lang was diagnosed with the genetic condition cystic fibrosis when she was 13 months old with doctors believing that her illness was already “beyond redemption”. But when she was aged four, Ms Lang became the youngest person with the condition to successfully undergo a heart and lung transplant.

Doctors confirmed her prognosis was terminal after her lungs collapsed during a holiday in Crete in 2014.

Her friends helped raise £10,000 to send her on holiday to Florida, and also organised a charity football game at Tadcaster Albion.

But Ms Lang’s health deteriorated after she was taken to hospital on January 31 for treatment to a virus which began to shut down her lungs.

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After almost 10 days in hospital, she was unable to battle the latest virus and died in the early hours of yesterday.

Despite her prolonged ill-health and constant setbacks, Sonny’s positive life attitude was one of many qualities admired by her friends and family.

Close friend Emma Louise Saunders said: “I’m going to miss you more than words can describe.

“If you have taught me anything it’s to live life to the full & you certainly did despite your illness. I love you so much, rest in peace.”

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Beth Wilson, who launched Sonny’s bucket list, said: “Nothing in this world mentally and physically prepares you to have to say goodbye to your best friend and walk out that room knowing you will never see her again.

“After fighting all 23 years of her life , she finally grew her wings. Heartbroken just doesn’t cut it, fly high my beautiful princess & I will see you on the other side. We love you unconditionally.”

Tadcaster Albion posted a heartfelt status for their former employee and one of their biggest fans which has now attracted almost 1,500 likes.

The club said: “We Love you Sonny. Heaven has gained a beautiful Angel.

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“We are all thinking of Anna, Marc,family and friends at this very sad time. Yet we know this is a temporary parting and a happy reunion awaits.

“Love everyone at Tadcaster Albion. Until We Meet Again.”