LIVINGSTON, WEST LOTHIAN – Ellie Beattie, the courageous teenager from Deans whose radiant smile and unbreakable spirit inspired Livingston, West Lothian, and beyond, has died at the age of 19. Known widely through her popular Facebook page Ellie’s Brave Cancer Journal, Ellie united her community in hope and compassion during her long battle with a rare and aggressive brain cancer.
Ellie passed away peacefully in the early hours of Monday, surrounded by her devoted family. Her mother, Elaine Beattie, shared the heartbreaking news, describing Ellie as “the bravest girl, right to the end.”
Our beautiful, bravest, stubborn girl passed away at 12:15 a.m. There are no words for the pain, but we were so privileged to be touched by an earth angel. Fly high, my girl — no more pain. You’ve left us with a lifetime of love and memories,” Elaine wrote in a moving tribute.
A Symbol of Strength and Hope
Ellie’s journey became a symbol of resilience for families facing childhood cancer. Diagnosed at age 12 with metastatic pineoblastoma and leptomeningeal disease—a rare form of brain cancer—Ellie defied all odds. Doctors feared she wouldn’t see her 13th birthday, but Ellie fought for seven remarkable years. Her determination inspired not only the local community but thousands across the UK who followed her story.
Her fight against childhood brain cancer was marked by extraordinary courage. She endured 11 surgeries, 32 sessions of radiotherapy, and countless rounds of chemotherapy, always with her signature smile. Even when cancer treatments caused her to lose her memory temporarily, Ellie’s humour and light never faded.
A Community United in Love
As Ellie’s story spread, the West Lothian community rallied around the Beattie family. From emotional Facebook posts to acts of kindness, neighbours, friends, and strangers stood by them. For her 17th birthday, over 100 bikers surprised Ellie with a ride-out and gifted her a custom leather vest — a moment that became a powerful symbol of solidarity and love.
Local charities, including Caleb’s Trio of Hope and Cclasp (Children with Cancer & Leukaemia Advice & Support for Parents), played crucial roles, helping the family create joyful memories — from funding trips to London’s West End shows to arranging surprise alpaca visits in their garden.
A Lasting Legacy of Light
Ellie leaves behind a legacy that transcends her years. Friends, hospital staff, and families touched by her journey describe her as “a light that never dimmed, even in the darkest moments.” One parent wrote: “To lose a child and still stand is no small thing. Ellie’s bravery will forever remind us to treasure every moment.”
Beyond the hospital walls, Ellie became an advocate of joy, resilience, and community spirit. She loved theatre, music, and books, and her beautiful singing voice once turned a bride’s hen party into an unforgettable celebration.
Ellie is survived by her parents, Elaine and Roy; her siblings, Kyle, Scott, and Rachel; and a community forever changed by knowing her.
