A young British woman hailed as an ‘angel’ by her boyfriend has died during gastric band surgery in Turkey.
Shannon Bowe, 28, tragically passed away on Saturday during the weight loss procedure in which a band is placed around the stomach to reduce food consumption.
Bowes loved ones say they are “devastated” by her “unfair” death, with many sharing their memories of her in photos on social media.
Her friend Ross Stirling, who led the heartfelt tribute, said, “Sleep tight my angel, love you forever and ever.”
Shannon Bowe, 28, died Saturday during gastric band surgery in Turkey
Shannon Bowe is pictured with her boyfriend, Ross Stirling
Mrs Bowe’s friend Ross Stirling has led tributes by saying ‘Sleep tight my angel, love you forever and ever’
Ms Bowe, from Denny, near Falkirk, is said to have traveled to the Middle East to have the operation.
It is unclear at which medical facility she had the surgery or what complications led to her death.
A source close to her said “everyone was totally devastated” when she learned of her passing and Facebook was flooded with tributes to the “beautiful angel” who was the “life and soul of every party.”
“Shannon was one of the nicest people I knew and she would do anything for anyone. She was the life and soul of a party. It’s so sad,” the insider said.
“These operations are risky, of course, but you hear about them so rarely.
“Everyone finds it very hard to believe that she is no longer with us.
“She had no travel insurance and her family will now have to pay thousands of pounds to get her back home.
“This is the last thing they need to worry about.”
Ms Bowe is said to have traveled to the Middle Eastern country to have the surgery. It is unclear at which medical facility she had the surgery or what complications led to her death
Ms Bowe’s loved ones have flooded Facebook with tributes to the ‘beautiful angel’ who was the ‘life and soul of every party’
A friend wrote, “Sad to see the news of Shannon Bowe’s thoughts to all friends and family.”
Someone else posted: “No words, absolutely devastated. Life is so cruel. You’ll be in our hearts forever, Shannon Bowe.”
Another friend echoed, “What a sad time to hear that such a beautiful young soul has passed away.
“You always had the brightest mind whether it was in the pub or when I watched you at work, your smile was contagious and lit up even the darkest of days. Rest in peace Angel, you’ve got your wings.’
“I just don’t know how to accept what happened and words can’t describe how I feel,” said another loved one. “It’s so cruel. My heart aches for you and everyone who loved you. We have had some of the best memories and you really made everyone laugh with your manners.
“You were taken in such a unfair way and I’m sorry Shannon Bowe.”
Another added: “Rest in peace Shannon Bowe,” complete with two red love hearts.
A source close to Ms Bowe said ‘Everyone is devastated’ to hear of her passing and Facebook has been flooded with tributes
“My heart is so sad Shannon. You were one of the purest, kindest souls I’ve ever met! So grateful for the memories with you.’
“Rest in peace beautiful girl. I’ll miss you xo,’ another commented.
A spokesman for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: “We are supporting the family of a British national who died in Turkey and are in contact with local authorities.”
Gastric band surgery involves a doctor placing a gastric band around the top of the stomach, creating a small pouch, according to the NHS.
When the patient eats, the small pouch fills up faster than their stomach normally would, making them feel fuller with less food.
The procedure is said to help patients eat less, eat more slowly, and lose weight.
Mrs. Bowe, from Denny, near Falkirk, will be missed by her family and friends
According to the healthcare authority, gastric band surgery typically takes less than an hour, not including the time it takes to induce anesthesia and wake a patient. The total process takes about three to four hours.
Complication rates for weight loss surgery are low and about only 1 in 100 people have problems after gastric band surgery, the NHS reports.
Only 1 in 1,000 is unlikely to survive the procedure.
Patients who are heavier, older, have had previous surgery in the stomach area, or have other serious health problems are at greater risk of complications.