YOU WERE MY SHINING LIGHT
Rio Ferdinand’s tribute after mum dies of cancer
RIO Ferdinand has paid a moving tribute to his mum after she died of cancer. The former England and Manchester United ace described Janice St Fort, 58, as “a little fighter” with “a huge heart”. She died on Thursday just over two years after Rio’s wife Rebecca lost her battle to the same disease. Rio posted a picture on Instagram of his mum proudly showing off a Premier League winner’s medal. He said: “It won’t ever be enough but I just want to say thanks, a really big thank you. “The ability you had to make me feel loved at every moment in my life without even having to say it or be there by my side will never be forgotten. “All I ever wanted in life from as young as I can remember was to make you proud and I know I must of got somewhere near to doing that.” Remembering his mum as “fiery” and “protective” the ex-defender said: “You loved hard, you disciplined me, you were a grafter and you were my everything.”
And he appeared to acknowledge Janice’s support during his darkest days following the loss of Rebecca, who died from breast cancer, aged 34 on May 2, 2015.
It has yet to be revealed which form of cancer Janice died from.
“At my most difficult time, you were my shining light & made it your mission to be there for me & my kids,” wrote Rio. “Trust me that will never be forgotten.
“From school runs to homework to making them smile...to starting horse riding lessons...they will always remember.
“You are the most selfless & giving person I have ever known which came from a genuine place of love.
“The way you have touched so many people’s hearts will live on and will be the way many will remember you mum.
“You were an inspirational person in so many ways, one day I will be able to tell you them all face to face.”
He signed off “love you mummy” – and his tribute prompted a flood of response from thousands of fans.
One message said: “You are a credit to her Rio.” Another posted: “You are some human...got nothing but respect for you.”