Hamilton Advertiser

Cheer us on and help brave battler Amelia

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A football fundraiser will be held this weekend to raise funds for Hamilton schoolgirl Amelia Mackie.

Each year Robbie Wardlaw, also from Hamilton, holds a football fundraiser to remember his friend Gerard Falsey – who was born prematurel­y and was diagnosed with a rare genetic disease in 2013.

Gerard was dependent on his left lung as it was the only one he had which functioned fully. But it later developed brittle asthma. He was told that he would need to be referred for a lung transplant.

And after finally receiving it in 2011, he went on to represent Britain at the European Heart and Lung Transplant Games in 2012.

Sadly, however, Gerard away the following year complicati­ons. He was just 31 years of age. As Gerard had done a lot of fundraisin­g, his friends wanted to continue this on his behalf.

And big-hearted Robbie also shares the proceeds of the event with other different causes.

Last year, all proceeds were donated to the Nicole Lafferty Foundation and this year a similar event has been organised by Robbie.

All money raised on the day will go to six-year-old Amelia Mackie who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblas­tic leukaemia last year. passed due to

Robbie said: “This is all for a great cause, a really special wee local girl whose family need our support so please give what you can.

“We are raising funds in memory of our much-loved friend Gerard Falsey who sadly passed away five years ago.

“Gerard had a huge group of friends and a fabulous family, who get together every year to raise money for good causes, and to spend the day celebratin­g Gerard’s life.

“This year we are raising money for a very special little girl named Amelia who, at just five years of age, is bravely undertakin­g a huge battle against cancer.

“Amelia still has a long road ahead and is not due to end treatment until March 2021.

“We would love to raise some cash for the family to help in any way they need it.

“Amelia is one of five children in her household and we would love them all to be able to make some fun family memories together at the end of Amelia’s treatment.

“Please give what you can and we hope to see you all at the football match at the Bent Park and our race night being held at the Greenfield club, both on August 10.”

You can make a donation at www. justgiving.com/crowdfundi­ng/nicolehogg­an

This is for a great cause, a really special wee local girl ... we’re raising funds in memory of our much loved friend Gerard

 ??  ?? Team work Last year’s players raised cash Brave Amelia in her hospital bed last year
Team work Last year’s players raised cash Brave Amelia in her hospital bed last year
 ??  ?? School Amelia before her diagnosis
School Amelia before her diagnosis
 ??  ?? Rememberin­g Gerard Falsey
Rememberin­g Gerard Falsey

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