A THIRTEEN-YEAR-OLD Celtic fan has died after collapsing into a coma last week during football training.
Kieran McDade suffered a suspected cardiac arrest while on the pitch at Dunbeth Football Club in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire.
The youngster from Airdrie was rushed to hospital where he fought for life for eight days.
Messages of support from friends, family and Scottish football players flooded in for the popular teen praying that he would pull through.
But tragically the football fanatic passed away this morning (FRI). Dozens of tributes have flown in for Kieran since the news of his passing.
Today his sister, Amy, paid tribute and revealed that her brother had already saved two lives today by donating his organs.
She posted: “My family would like to thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts for the overwhelming prayers and support you have given us.
“Our beautiful boy is now with the angels and will forever live on in our hearts.
“Kieran’s mum and dad would like to thank all his friends for all of the amazing things you have done for him, we now know how loved he truly is.
“My mum would also like to thank all the brave boys and girls for staying so strong, and to all the mums, she asks you hug your boy tight tonight because life is full of surprises and so so precious, appreciate every moment you have with them.
“Would also like to let everyone know that Kieran has remained the most sensitive and generous boy that he is and donated some of his organs which has saved two people’s lives today.
“What a brave soldier, he will be truly missed. Lots of love, big sis x”
His auntie Bernadette Brennan today posted a link to the song Angel by Sarah McLachlan writing: “Kieran McDade, aged 13 and a bit. Sleeping with the Angels 26th August 2016.”
Bernadette revealed that Kieran’s parents had been told on Tuesday that he was not “going to get better”.
She added: “We are utterly heartbroken.”
One of Kieran’s best friends, Caitlyn Plunkett said: “You were one strong boy. You are my bestie and you’re in a better place now you’re still with us all.
“All a can do is cry right now thinking about this. Thoughts are out to you and your family. Missing you loads. RIP. There is only one Kieran McDade.”
Dunbeath Football Club posted: “Kieran collapsed at training last Thursday and although all efforts by coaching staff, paramedics, doctors and all the prayers that people said it just wasn’t enough.
“This is the most heartbreaking situation that any parent could go through and all the people connected to Dunbeth FC send their condolences to Bernie, Gemma, Amy and all extended family and friends.
“Kieran was a big happy go lucky boy and all his team mates and coaches will miss him terribly. A popular boy who gave his all for his team and will forever be remembered for the League Championship he proudly won with his team mates and all the good memories that came with that.
“He was a founder member of the 2003 squad and secured his place as our No 8 which we all knew he treasured dearly. It doesn’t matter what words I use they will never explain the feeling we have for Kieran or the loss that we share with his family.
“He has left us all with cherished memories but ones that will forever be tinged with sadness that he is not here to relive them with us. Rest in peace KM8.”
Rangers Football Club fan page, The Blue Sea of Ibrox said: “R.I.P. to Kieran McDade who this morning sadly passed away after being in a coma for a week.
“Kieran was playing football and tragically took a cardiac arrest on the pitch. May your heart and soul find peace and comfort GBNF.”
Forth Valley Football Development Association (FVFDA) said: “Everyone at the FVFDA send their deepest condolences to his family and friends. R.I.P young man.
“As a mark of respect we will have a minute silence at all youth games tomorrow, we have spoken with Dunbeth and they have requested that no games are cancelled as Kieran loved his football.”
Stephen Snee, Head Teacher of St Margaret’s High School, Airdrie, where Keiran was a pupil also paid tribute.
He said: “Kieran McDade was very popular with the pupils and staff. He arrived at our school in March 2015 with his classmates from Saint Dominic’s Primary School.
“He enjoyed most subjects and PE was a particular favourite. Kieran was an excellent footballer and played in local teams with many of his classmates.
“The school has been a very sad place today. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kieran, his family and his friends at this time.”
Last Friday his sister Amy posted a heartfelt message to Kieran on her Facebook page.
She said: “We are so so proud of you. Keep on fighting you can do this, everyone is here to support you and welcome you home.
“You’re such a brave boy and I never thought I would say that I can’t wait to hear your voice again because you usually never shut up so happy to see you wriggle your wee toes.
“You’re a soldier and we love you unconditionally. Come on Kieran you can do this. You little miracle.”
Last Saturday Celtic captain Scott Brown sent a message to Kieran saying: “I hope you get well soon pal. Hope everyone close to him is helping him and seeing him every day.”
Celtic Football Club said: “Stay strong Kieran. From all the Celtic Football Team Club. Keep the faith and hail hail.”
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a potentially fatal condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating.
In 2012, Fabrice Muamba suffered a cardiac arrest during a televised FA Cup match between Bolton and Tottenham Hotspur.
The Bolton midfielder survived despite his heart being stopped for 78 minutes.
North Lanarkshire Council issued a short statement from Kieran’s parents, who are understood to be called Bernie and Gemma.
The couple said: “We are devastated at the loss of our lovely son Keiran. He lived life to the full and his smile would light up a room.
“We are very grateful for the support we’ve received from his friends and teachers at the school.”
