Brit Shannon Bowe, 28, dies during gastric band surgery in Turkey as heartbroken boyfriend pays tribute
A YOUNG Brit has died during gastric band surgery in Turkey as her devastated boyfriend payed tribute to his "angel".
Shannon Bowe, 28, from Falkirk in Scotland, passed away during the procedure on March 31.
Shannon, who lived in Denny, travelled to the Middle Eastern country to undergo the surgery.
It is unclear where she received the operation or what complications led to her death on the weekend.
Gastric band surgery is a weight loss procedure in which a band is placed around the stomach to decrease food consumption.
The surgery itself is expected to last less than an hour, but the whole procedure - from anaesthesia to the patient waking up - should take between three to four hours.
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The NHS reports that only 1 in 100 patients suffer complications during gastric band surgery, while less than 1 in 1,000 are likely not to survive the procedure.
Her boyfriend Ross Stirling posted a devastating tribute online that read: "Sleep tight my angel, love you forever and always."
A pal of Shannon's said: “Everyone is totally devastated. Shannon was one of the kindest people I knew and she would do anything for anyone.
“She was the life and soul of a party. It is so sad.
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“These operations obviously are risky, but it is so rare you hear of this happening.
“Everyone is finding it really hard to believe she is no longer with us."
The friend also revealed the complications her family are now facing because the young Scot did not have travel insurance.
“Her family are now going to have to pay thousands of pounds to bring her back home," they added.
“This is the last thing they need to worry about."
A spokesperson for the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: “We are supporting the family of a British national who died in Turkey and are in contact with the local authorities.”
Moving tributes are pouring in online from the 28-year-old's heartbroken loved ones.
One friend wrote: “Sad to see the news of Shannon Bowe thoughts with all friends and family.”
Someone else posted: “No words, absolutely devastated. Life is so cruel. You will be forever in our hearts Shannon Bowe.”
Another added: “My heart is so sad Shannon. You were one of the purest most kindest souls I’ve ever met!
“So grateful for the memories with you."
Another pal said: "You always had the brightest spirit be it in the pub or when I saw you at work your smile was infectious and lit up even the darkest of days.
Echoing the words of Shannon's boyfriend, she added: "Rest easy now Angel you have gained your wings."
Another tribute read: "I just don't know how to accept what's happened and words can't describe how I'm feeling.
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"It's so cruel. My heart is sore for you and everyone that loved you. We have had some of the best memories and you really did make everyone laugh with your ways.
"You were taken in such an unfair way and I'm so sorry Shannon Bowe."
