As the festive season approaches, Maura Derrane has candidly opened up about the emotional challenges of facing another Christmas without her sister.
Rita, who passed away from breast cancer in November 2023 at the age of 51, was dearly loved by her family.
Speaking to the Irish Independent, Maura described the first year after her sister’s death as “a blur,” and admits that the reality of her absence only began to fully sink in this last year.
“Grief comes in stages,” she told the publication.
“It’s so sad. She loved Christmas. Rita loved Christmas and getting the perfect present.
“Before Rita passed, we had three very sad Christmases when she was ill.
“She was very sick for the last year before she died… I just didn’t want to hear those happy songs at Christmas,” she admitted.
“You have to really try very hard not to cry because… whether you lost somebody two years ago or 10 years ago, anyone close to you, Christmas can be a very lonely and a happy time at the same time.”
Picture: Brian McEvoy
Rita’s battle with breast cancer began in her late thirties and sadly returned in 2021.
The TV host has previously spoken about the cruelty of losing her sister at such a young age, especially after their father lived to 79 despite also facing cancer.
As Maura reflects on her sister’s absence, our thoughts are with everyone feeling the loss of a loved one this Christmas.
