Erin Harbinson (44) from Tandragee was diagnosed with advanced stage cervical cancer in 2021 after the results of three smear tests were misread over the course of a decade, for which the Southern Health and Social Care Trust apologised. The classroom assistant was diagnosed just two weeks before a major review was ordered into the results of 17,500 smear tests carried out within the Southern Trust. That review led to the formation of the Ladies with Letters group, which has offered their sympathies to Erin’s family.
Tributes have poured in following news of Erin’s death on Saturday. The Ladies with Letters group, posting on social media, said: “It is with great sadness we have learned that our beautiful friend Erin passed away yesterday afternoon. “There are no words to describe the wonderful woman Erin was and how she battled her illness with such dignity.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Erin’s husband Trevor, children, Matthew (his partner Lesley-Ann), Liam, Keelan, Connie and family circle. “Such a privilege to have known you Erin..
.you will never be forgotten.” Ulster Unionist Councillor Julie Flaherty, said she was “devastated at the loss of this absolute lady”.
“She was a true warrior – a battle hardened campaigner during her hardest days, always for others. We will continue the fight Erin.” Independent Unionist Councillor Paul Berry said “a very dark cloud” had descended over Tandragee following the passing of a “loving wife, mother .