Carer, 29, dies suddenly as heartbroken family pay tribute to 'kindest person you could meet'

Tributes are being paid following the tragic death of a young woman who lost her battle with addiction and mental health problems.

Hartlepool's Sadie Marie Connor, 29, is believed to have taken her own life on November 7, say her heartbroken family, following a six-year struggle with mental health issues and alcohol and drug addiction.

Sadie's loved ones have described her as 'the kindest person you could meet', saying the former Dyke House school pupil would give her last to those who showed her kindness. They said they have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from the community in Hartlepool.

Sadie's elder sister, Candus Skidmore, 34, said she and Sadie moved to Hartlepool from North Carolina, USA, in 2001, when their mum, Brandie Brown, 57, married an Englishman. Their younger siblings, Harmony, 22, Ruby, 20 and James, 18, were all born in the town.

Candus said they have been amazed by the outpouring of love for Sadie and the support shown to her family. She said her sister would rest peacefully knowing how loved she was.

She said: "It has really shocked the family that so many people in the town cared for her and are willing to help. It makes us feel like we are part of the town and part of the community. Sadie was only six when we came her and she always considered herself more as English."

She said after leaving school Sadie spent time at university studying graphic art and design, but she found her passion as a care worker and was working her way up and studying to become a supervisor. But, sadly, around 2018 Sadie's struggles started to get the better of her and she battled with her addiction and mental health since then.

Candus said although Sadie had made suicide attempts in the past, her death came as a shock because she seemed to be doing quite well. She said: "Our nephew was born in October and she was trying so hard for him."

She said despite her problems, Sadie was always a lovely person. She said: "She was the kindest person you could meet. She would literally give the shoes off her feet or the shirt off her back to anyone that needed them.

"The addiction overpowered her, it changed her into a different person."

Sadie's friend, Leanne Williams, has set up a fundraising page to help towards the cost of her funeral. Leanne said: "She was a massive character and deserves only the best send off possible. Please take the time to help out and make this all possible for the most incredibly funny, loving, kind and beautiful girl anything is very much appreciated."

The funding currently stands at £1,235 and anyone who would like to donate can visit the page here.

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