24-year-old Portsmouth woman, a symbol of resilience and hope across the country, passes away

A 24-year-old woman from Portsmouth, Rhode Island who captured the country and social media in her fight against a dreaded disease since she was a teenager, has died.

Carrigan Nelson fought a courageous seven-year battle against osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer that she was diagnosed with shortly after her 18th birthday.

She became a symbol of resilience and hope in the community, actively sharing her journey on social media where she advocated for childhood cancer awareness and spread positivity amid her treatments.

Nelson, who was also known for her singing, passed away on Christmas Day at Boston Children’s Hospital according to a statement on her GoFundMe fundraiser.

“Our beautiful songbird left us on Christmas Day after her 7-year fight with Osteosarcoma. Carrigan is at peace singing with angels now. Christmas was her favorite holiday and it’s so meaningful that she entered heaven on Christmas because she was such a blessing and a gift to us all. Thanks to all on Team Carrigan for loving our girl as much as we do and for your never-ending support. She wants everyone to know that she didn’t lose her battle. She won by staying true to herself, remaining strong and committed to her advocacy work, and to her family, friends, and community. A few days ago, she wrote “I never gave up, I never gave in, and I stayed silly.” Words to live by…”

Tributes from friends, family, and those who followed her story have poured in, celebrating her strength and the positive impact she had on others facing similar challenges.