A bikers’ outrider tribute is to be paid to cancer sufferer Alexandra Johnston at her funeral in Derry tomorrow.
The 16-year-old from Claudy was one of the faces of a campaign to highlight Ewing Sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer which particularly strikes teenagers and young adults.
She died at the Royal Victoria Hospital for Sick Children on Thursday.
When first diagnosed in 2013, doctors gave the young girl just months to live.
However, she defied all predictions to reach her 16th birthday on New Year’s Day.
Alexandra met some of her heroes, including One Direction, and also took a call from Theo Rossi of her favourite television show Sons of Anarchy, which centres on a US motorcycle club.
Her love of motorbikes also led to 34 bikers turning up at her home in 2016 to present her with leathers and take her on a special trip.
In a poignant tribute to his daughter, Alexandra’s dad Andre said: “A lot of you have been on this journey with us for four and a half years and been inspired, laughed and now shed a tear as the most amazing, inspirational, brave and talented young lady is shining amongst the stars tonight.”
The teenager’s love of biking will be reflected at her funeral from her home at Millers Close in Claudy for Requiem Mass at St Columb’s Church, Chapel Road, Derry at 2.30pm tomorrow.
Bikers from throughout the north west are expected to form a guard of honour.
Mr Johnston said that if the weather meant they could not provide outriders, they would turn up in their leathers to show their respect for Alexandra.
Following Requiem Mass, Alexandra will be laid to rest at St Patrick’s Church cemetery in Claudy.
