Former world champion cyclist Becky North has announced the death of her younger sister Bethan, who passed away at 31 years old.
North, who is married to Wales rugby icon George North, shared the news in an emotional Instagram post, paying tribute to her sister and the courage she showed throughout her life.
Bethan was born with fluid on the brain and lived with cerebral palsy, epilepsy and blindness. She required round-the-clock care and had overcome numerous serious health battles over the years, according to Wales Online.
Tribute to a sister
Announcing her passing, Becky, who competed under her maiden name of James during her cycling career, wrote: "Our darling sister, Bethan."
"You fought so hard, and you defied the odds so many times. 31 beautiful years on this earth, leaving behind more love than words could ever explain."
"We are so proud of you and we will love you and miss you for the rest of our lives. Our hearts are broken, but we feel so lucky to have had you as our sister."
"Sleep peacefully, our beautiful angel. Until we meet again."
Family bond and perspective
Becky has previously spoken about her bond with Bethan and the impact her sister had on her outlook on life.
In a 2013 interview with The Independent, shortly after claiming double world champion status in track cycling, the Welsh athlete revealed how Bethan's medical challenges gave her a reality check amid the demands of top-level competition.
"It brings everything into perspective," she said at the time. "When I start getting upset about racing or if I'm worrying about things too much, my mum will always put things into perspective and it makes me think of my sister. It just makes you want to kick yourself."
Bethan had needed round-the-clock care from birth, with Becky's mum and dad David and Christine devoting much of their time to her wellbeing.
In the same conversation, Becky disclosed how the family had weathered a testing time after Bethan was hospitalised for 12 weeks the year before.
"Bethan was born with fluid on the brain and needs 24-hour care. My parents have been the most amazing people in the world," she said. "When she's poorly, it's hard. It makes you appreciate everything you have so much more."
Cycling career and family support
Becky also remembered the hours she spent supporting Bethan's care during her childhood, including feeding and washing her when her parents required help.
Becky, from Abergavenny, established herself as one of Britain's top track cyclists, claiming two world championships in 2013 before earning two silver medals at the Rio Olympics in 2016.
She subsequently married former Wales and British and Irish Lions icon North.
