A FAMILY today paid tribute to their "happy and smiley" daughter who lost her brave battle against a brain tumour.
Emma Knight, aged 13, was diagnosed with a brain tumour four years ago and despite losing her vision continued taking part in her beloved dancing and sports.
Today her family gave their heartfelt thanks to their relatives, friends and organisations and individuals who have supported them over the years.
Emma, from Beighton, suffered a stroke which left her unable to walk or talk and after a long fight with illness she passed away in June.
Hundreds of people attended her funeral in her home village and parents Steve, 42, and Jane, 40, and her 10-year-old sister Katie have been hugely touched by the kindness and support they've received.
Steve said of Emma's courage during her illness: "It never got her down, she never moaned or cried. She was always happy and smiley."
Jane added: "We always smile when we think of Emma."
Steve praised the local community for its support.
"We want to thank everyone for their support," he said. "Around 300 people came to Emma's funeral, the church was choc-a-bloc and we were proud so many people came and paid tribute to her. The people of Beighton have been lovely."
The family received more than 200 cards after their loss which Jane said had been a comfort.
During her illness, Emma underwent a series of operations at Sheffield Children's Hospital to treat her brain tumour but she never complained about her ill health.
She was cared for by a team of medics on ward M3 and the family praised the expert care she received.
Emma, who attended Brook House Juniors before going to Tapton, enjoyed school and was a popular pupil, who insisted on attending regularly.
From the age of three she loved dancing and continued to enjoy her hobby even when she lost her sight.
She also loved attending Sheffield Wednesday matches with Steve, was a mascot at a match, and even met the players.
Over the years kind-hearted people held events which enabled the family to enjoy holidays, days out and meals at Damon's at Crystal Peaks.
The family also praised the support of Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice in Dinnington and the help they received from their social worker.
Stuart Woodhead, a club co-ordinator of Sheffield Actionnaires, an activity club for blind and partially-sighted youngsters where Emma was a member, took part in a three day bike ride from Carlisle to Sheffield which raised £9,000 for the family.
Some of the money will be used for the family to have a holiday and they will also donate a bench to Bluebell Wood Hospice and a snooker table to a children's hospice in Grimsby which also gave them vital support.
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