My hero, our hero

During October, my family’s world was turned upside down as we learned that a loved one had been diagnosed with Leukaemia at only the age of 13. That loved one was my brother. However, with strong support from all around such as family, friends and the hospital staff - it has seen my brother not even flinch at this horrible disease.

Around these dark days, it is never easy to find a light, but as one of his favourite artists says, “These are dark days, But I heard that there's an easier way.” What I’ve personally taken from this lyric of Gerry Cinnamons song is that you need to go through the dark days to get to the better days. This here, is just a dark day that has lots of better days round the corner.

My brother is also football mad. With the family being season ticket holders at Ibrox and playing for his team, St Cadocs every weekend. With having to stop attending the games and give up football for the time being has been particular hard on Sam. But does that mean it all has to stop? If there’s a will, there’s a way.

Throughout Sams time in hospital we’ve been able to bring the football to him. Rangers FC have been second to none with inviting Sam and our family to the training ground to meet all his idols and hero’s. Jermain Defoe and Steven Davis have also personally sent Sam videos wishing him all the best and even giving match day tops. Something to smile about.

Throughout this, it has been difficult from the word go. However, for a 13-year-old to not moan or groan about all the things going on is just one of the reasons he is my hero. As he smiles away and plays FIFA in the hospital, it only fills me with hope that things will get better.

Everyone remains hopeful that these dark days pass sooner rather than later. However, the main thing is to focus on the positives. We will make sure that our hero gets his boots on with a smile on his face, and can get back on the park to have a kick about with his mates.

My hero, our hero.