Rangers fans living with terminal or life-changing illnesses were able to spend dream morning with their footballing heroes.
The group of 12 were invited into the Rangers Training Centre this week to enjoy an exclusive autograph session with the men’s first team and manager, as part of the Rangers Charity Foundation’s Dream Fund.
Nine of the 12 guests were under 30-years-old, and several are facing regular treatment for late-stage cancer.
The group, who had all been nominated for this special experience by family or friends, enjoyed a special lunch at Ibrox and a stadium tour after their time with the team.
Cody Clarke, 18, who has septo-optic dysplasia, was nominated for a Dream Day experience by her mum Wilma and travelled from Northern Ireland especially to attend.
Speaking at the Training Centre, Wilma said: “We have had a fantastic day – it has meant so much.
“Cody only had one hour’s sleep after coming over from Belfast and just being so excited. The players took their time to have proper conversations with her and it has been even better than we thought it would be.”
Cody said: “I am so full of life and excited. I got to chat to the players, and they were all so nice - it was such a special day.”
The Club’s official charity hopes to bring smiles to the faces of those who are most in need of a boost, through its Dream Fund initiative.
The fund pays for events like this throughout the season for children and adults whose lives have been impacted by disability, illness, bereavement, or other challenging circumstances.
First Team star John Lundstram said: “It was lovely to come in and meet everyone. They have been through some really tough stuff, and it is just nice to help put a smile on their faces.
“I think it is super important to have these kinds of days. You don’t get much of a chance to meet individual fans and I hope they enjoyed meeting us as much as we enjoyed meeting them.”
Manager Philippe Clement added: “It has been really good. Days like today are important because I think it is one of the strengths of this club - the solidarity with fans.
“It was nice to talk with everyone here and they were delighted to see all the players and even the manager. It’s always good to do these things after a win.
“It is crucial to have charity in the club. It is not just about winning and spending money - it is about being there for the community when they need you and I want to be involved in these things.”
Rachael Cosgrove, Charity Executive at the Foundation praised the Dream Fund, said: “It is truly a privilege to organise days like today … and make sure our guests have this special experience when they are most in need of a boost.”
To be considered for a Rangers Charity Dream Fund experience, children and adults must be nominated using a nomination form, which can be found online at www.rangerscharity.org.uk.
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