THE family of a young mum who twice underwent brain surgery during an eight-year battle with cancer have paid tribute to her ‘amazing positive attitude’ following her death yesterday (Wednesday).

Brave Claire Macfarlane, 27, of Haddington, was first diagnosed with the disease shortly after her 18th birthday, as she was studying beauty therapy at Edinburgh’s Telford College.

But despite undergoing two major brain operations, the former Knox Academy pupil was determined to get on with life and be a fantastic mum to baby daughter Sophie.

Claire was first diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour while at college.

She underwent surgery and treatment and returned to her studies with what her family described as an amazing positive determination to complete her course.

She went on to work at Pure Spa, in Ocean Terminal, Edinburgh, and more recently at Fletcher’s Cottage, Archerfield where she was a popular member of the spa team.

In April last year, Claire, who lived on Gateside Avenue, and her family received the devastating news that the cancer had returned.

At the time, Claire and her long-term partner Steven Rowe were expecting their first child and, with treatment planned, doctors decided to deliver the baby three months early.

Daughter Sophie was born on May 18 last year, and was admitted to the neo-natal unit at Simpson’s at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh as Claire prepared to undergo a second major brain operation.

While recovering and undergoing chemotherapy treatment, Claire was determined to visit the neo-natal ward to spend time with Sophie, who was allowed to go home with her family on August 9 last year.

John Macfarlane, Claire’s father, paid tribute to his daughter and the way she coped with her illness.

He told the Courier: “We are, of course, devastated but proud of the way she coped over the passed eight years.

"Claire was a happy, caring and loving daughter and a fantastic mother to Sophie – she kept her health issues private and simply got on with her life.”

Claire had spent the last few weeks at home being cared for by her mother Susan and Macmillan Nurses before being admitted to St Columba’s Hospice in Edinburgh, where she passed away peacefully yesterday morning.

Claire's funeral will take place at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Haddington on Friday (August 26) at noon, with bright colours welcome. 

There will be a private family cremation after, and family flowers only, but donations can be made to The Brain Tumour Charity and St Columba’s Hospice.