TRIBUTES have been paid to a “caring, bubbly, superhero little girl” who has died from a heart condition.

Darcy, who lived in Malton, with her parents Emily and Kristian D’Rosario, died on January 24, just five days after her sister was born.

The six-year-old, who attended Norton Primary School, was due to undergo an operation at Leeds General Infirmary when an infection went to her heart.

Kristian said Darcy was born with a very serious heart condition and had been in and out of hospital constantly for operations.

He said: “She was our hero, the light of lives, our best friend and the main character in our home. Even though she faced many battles, she never complained, sulked or got angry. She is a role model for not only children but for adults too.

“This was so sudden and so, so painful. It doesn’t seem real. We are hoping that she will walk into our bedroom and say good morning then come and lay between us, that she would be getting her school clothes ready for me to get her dressed or that she was singing and dancing and making us smile with every word and movement.”

Kristian said Darcy had been very excited at the prospect of being a big sister and was delighted when Beatrice was born on January 19.

“She was so happy and looking forward to introducing Beatrice to everyone,” he said.

“They had such a short time together but those are memories we will treasure forever.”

Originally from Kent, the family moved to Malton to be nearer Leeds where Darcy was being treated.

“We were looking for a change and a better life for Darcy,” Kristian said. “We were also looking to find a community where we could fit in and we found that here.

“Everyone has been so supportive since Darcy died, including her school, who have been fantastic.”

Kristian said the couple had been overwhelmed by the donations made to a fundraising page set up by his sister, Michelle, in memory of Darcy.

“It has been unbelievable to see how much love and support there is, it means so much to us and is completely overwhelming,” he said.

“We would like to thank everyone who’s taken their time to send love and support as well as those who have donated.

“I don’t think we could fully put into words just how grateful we are to everyone.”

Kristian said the funds would be used to create a memorial for Darcy which the family could visit.

“The world was a better place with Darcy, whilst heaven has gained a true angel, earth has now lost a real life superhero,” he said.

“You will be our world for the remainder of our days and your little sister will know how proud you made us every day.”

Darcy’s funeral service will take place at St Peter’s Church, Norton, on Wednesday, February 13, at 11.30am.

Anyone who would like to make a donation should go to gofundme.com/in-memory-of-darcy

The One-Stop shop in Norton is also fundraising with various events, including a raffle and cake stall yesterday (Wednesday).