Old Firm fans have been asked to put their rivalry aside to pay tribute to a “wee warrior” who lost her two-year fight with a brain tumour.
Ava Nelson, 12, passed away peacefully in Robin House Children’s Hospice on Tuesday, April 16, after battling a highly aggressive glioblastoma tumour.
Before being diagnosed with an incurable cancer at the age of ten in 2022, the brave primary school student from Kilwinning, Ayrshire, had been complaining of headaches, feeling unwell, and feeling lightheaded.
Her mum Jackie Dunlop, paid tribute to her “wee warrior”.
As stated by the 37-year-old, “Ava was our little champ. She fought conflicts that would have shamed some grownups because she was vivacious, fearless, and courageous.
“She gave us as a family the strength to tackle our issues head-on and never once complained during the course of the two years. She smiled.
“After a protracted two-year struggle with brain cancer, the toughest thing I had to do was hold my baby in my arms and watch her slip away.
“Her dad, two sisters, step-dad, aunties, uncle, cousin were all by her side.
“Our hearts are broken, and our heads hurt. We promise to be a resilient family and see to it that our little fighter has the most memorable farewell ever.
Ava was a devoted Rangers fan who visited Ibrox last year and got to meet her heroes. James Tavernier, the team captain, and Tom Laurence, a player, posed with the schoolgirl.
When Rangers face Kilmarnock this Saturday, other Rangers fans are invited to honour Ava with a minute of applause.
However, mother Jackie was moved when Celtic supporters later asked Old Firm supporters to unite for a memorial service on May 11th during Celtic vs. Rangers.
The day following Ava’s funeral, in the 12th minute of the powder keg derby, there will be an applause.
Jackie went on, “Ava had a huge passion for the Rangers! She has been a mascot, had breakfast with the legends, and met a number of the players. Her favourite player was James Tavernier.
It was amazing to see messages of support from Celtic supporters too. It made me smile to see how many people from the football world have shown their love to us as a family.
“I hope Celtic and Rangers fans join in on an applause in the 12th minute for Ava. That would be really special.”
She also thanked the incredible support shown in the local North Ayrshire community, with people turning their Facebooks purple for Ava, as well as football teams letting off balloons and paying their respects.
“Ava was surrounded with so much love,” Jackie continued. As a family, we are incredibly grateful to the Robin House staff for everything they have done.
“We are also incredibly grateful to the community. We will always be appreciative.”
