Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Dad’s tribute to ‘wonderful’ son
JACK Souttar and his family had to watch the death of his talented, sporting son Aaron from motor neurone disease.
He has now called for major research to halt what he describes as “one of the most hellish diseases” to affect mankind.
Aaron, 42, of Brechin, a graduate design engineer and talented golfer, died in July, two-and-ahalf years after the first signs of MND emerged.
The dad-of-one had been a footballer in his youth but golf was his sport of choice. He played at Brechin where he was club champion and Dalhousie Medal winner.
His athleticism was in keeping with family tradition. His father, Jack, had played for Brechin City, brother Harry plays for Stoke and brother John plays for Rangers.
Over the course of his illness, Jack said Aaron received outstanding support from his partner Paula Thompson, MND Scotland, My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, the NHS and Angus Council, his sisters Ailsa and Mhiran and wider family.
In the latter stages of his illness, Aaron was provided with a screen that could be operated with his eyes to change television channels and follow his beloved sport.
This also allowed him to communicate by WhatsApp and email.
Jack said: “My son was handsome, hard-working, generous, intelligent, athletic and a friend to many with a wonderful sense of humour who loved life.
“This hellish disease must be stopped and I feel heart sorry for any family going through life with MND.”
While Aaron concentrated on his golf, he closely followed the football careers of his brothers.
Jack said: “For the last four months, Aaron required 24-hour care, funding for which was provided by Angus Council.
“MND Scotland, the NHS MND specialists and My Name’5 Doddie
Foundation were generous in support and provided grants for equipment for Aaron’s house.
“Aaron was laid back and generous and had a great attitude to life. He was smart, articulate and a decent lad. I don’t think anyone said a bad word about him.
“The enjoyment and satisfaction Aaron took from raising his son, Hamish, who is six, was immeasurable and I am certain that Hamish will appreciate the relatively short time they had together.”