Celts fan Lee taken too soon by cancer
‘Fordy’ dies days after diagnosis
A CELTIC fan has died aged 30, just days after he was diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Lee Ford, known as Fordy or Papa Ford to his friends, lost his fight for life on Wednesday.
The tragedy came as distraught loved ones were still struggling to come to terms with his illness.
The hospital worker had celebrated his 30th birthday with dozens of friends in Edinburgh last month.
Heartbroken pals described Lee as a “gentleman” and paid tribute on social media.
Aimee Dalton wrote: “Devastated doesn’t even come close.
“I know when people pass away everyone always says the old cliche of ‘he only takes the best’ but this is the truth.
“The most genuine, loveable person I’ve had the pleasure of calling a friend. You’ve left behind hundreds of broken hearts. Rest in peace Papa Ford.”
Cousin Mandy Buchanan added: “I am unbelievably lucky and proud to have you as my little cousin, my heart is beyond broken. Love you forever.”
Pals are calling for football fans to honour Lee’s memory with a minute’s applause at today’s Old Firm clash.
In a tweet to Celtic, Martin Cook said: “Many lost a great friend in Lee Ford and Celtic FC lost a great supporter.
“Lee recently turned 30. Can we have a round of applause in the 30th minute on Saturday to celebrate the life of Lee Ford?”
Friends are rallying round to raise £2500 to help Lee’s family with the cost of his funeral and have set up a JustGiving page.
It read: “Over a week ago, many people received the news that a great guy who was loved by everyone he knew had been diagnosed with cancer and it was terminal.
“Our gent, our family, our friend Lee Ford, our Papa Ford or Fordy as we all love to call him received the most devastating news.
“Just over a week later, Lee lost his battle to the horrible disease.
“Lee leaves his amazingly strong mum Kerry. He also leaves behind an amazing family and countless friends.
“Life is cruel but we were so blessed to have him in our lives. As we prepare to say goodbye for the last time, we must join together and give him the send-off he deserves.”