The family of a inspirational young woman from Moray who has died aged just 30 have paid tribute to “the bravest fighter ever”.
June “JJ” Lamb spent her short life battling against a series of medical complaints, including Lupus – a rare genetic condition that systematically attacked the whole of her body.
But despite spending 15 months in hospital and enduring 30 injections and 60 tablets day, she never lost her zest for life – or her sense of mischief.
Her family have asked mourners at her funeral to wear something purple – the colour of the charity Lupus UK and the tone she asked nurses to dye her remaining hair as she lay dying.
She will be buried in the purple bridesmaid’s dress she had intended to her sister’s wedding in December.
Last night her mum Patricia said: “She was the bravest fighter ever.
“Even though she was 30, she was still my little angel and always will be.”
The former Newmill Primary and Keith Grammar pupil was diagnosed with arthritis at the age of just four.
When she reached eight, it was discovered she had epilepsy.
Then, five years ago, it became apparent she was also suffering from Lupus.
Her elder sister Margaret, 35, said she refused to lose her spirit as the disease took its toll.
“The Lupus caused JJ’s hair to fall out until only a few clumps were left,” she explained.
“One day she told me to cut off the rest.
“I refused at first but she insisted – I was crying as I was doing it.
“She then ordered me to take a photograph of her completely bald.
“She posed with a big smile while making the thumbs-up sign, and immediately posted the picture onto the internet.
“‘There you go’, JJ said, ‘I told you there are more important things in life than hair’.”
A highly talented artist, Miss Lamb also volunteered at Keith Resource Centre until she was forced to give up due to ill health.
But despite being confined to a wheelchair she refused to feel sorry for herself.
She was also quick to detect when others were wallowing in self-pity.
Her family, who live in Jamieson Place, Elgin, say her favourite catchphrase was “man up, cupcake”.
A service for June “JJ” Lamb will be held at William Watson’s Chapel on Blackfriars Road, Elgin, at 11.30am on Monday.
Any donations should be made to Lupus UK.