Tragic teen footballer saves two lives with organ donation

A 13-year-old boy who died after collapsing during a football training session has saved two lives by donating his organs.

Kieran McDade. Picture: submitted

Kieran McDade was taken to hospital after collapsing while on the pitch at Dunbeth Football Club in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, last Thursday.

Dunbeth Football Club confirmed that the teenager died on Friday morning.

Kieran’s sister Amy, paid tribute to her brother on Facebook earlier and revealed that he donated some of his organs which have saved two lives.

Celtic fan Brian has saved two lives with his organ donation. Picture: submitted

She wrote: “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.

Celtic fan Brian has saved two lives with his organ donation. Picture: submitted

“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 peoples lives today. What a brave soldier, he will be truly missed.

“Lots of love, big sis x.”

In a statement posted on Facebook, the Dunbeth Football Club said: “It is with a broken heart that I have to inform you all that Kieran McDade of our 2003 squad passed away this morning.

“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.”

The Forth Valley Football Development Association (FVFDA) announced on Facebook earlier that as a mark of respect a minute’s silence will be held at all youth games on Saturday and no games will be cancelled as “Kieran loved his football”.

Following the incident last week messages of support from friends, family and Scottish football players flooded in for the youngster, hoping that he would pull through.

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