Rangers hero tells of grief at death of his daughter

Rangers legend Willie Henderson has spoken over his family’s grief after his daughter died.

Michelle Henderson passed away yesterday after a long battle with cervical cancer.

In an emotional statement released on behalf of the family Mr Henderson, who lives in Broxburn, West Lothian with his wife Veronica said: “We are greatly saddened to announce that at the age of only 28, our dear and beloved daughter Michelle passed away after a long and difficult battle that with cancer.

“She fought that battle very bravely and did as much as she could to heighten awareness of the illness she faced.

“Michelle was a loving daughter, sister and granddaughter and will be greatly missed by all her family and friends.

“A bright light in our lives went out today but Michelle will live forever in our hearts”.

After being diagnosed with cancer two years ago Michelle moved back into the family home in West Lothian.

She fought to keep a positive attitude towards her condition, despite having to undergo gruelling bouts of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and a full 
hysterotomy.

Michelle, discovered she had the disease following a routine smear test, and used a television interview last year to urge other women to ensure they were checked regularly.

Michelle, who had an 
honours degree in journalism from Napier University, published a newspaper diary charting her battle with the disease.

The former model was also a promising athlete in her teens, described as “one of Scotland’s most promising young 
sprinters”.

At the age of 18 she attempted to become the first woman to win the New Year Sprint at Musselburgh Race Course.

Since her diagnosis in October 2010, her many friends have rallied round to raise money for The Michelle Henderson Cervical Cancer Trust, with events including charity football matches and zumbathons raising many thousands of pounds.

Her father took part in many of her fundraising efforts

Speaking in October last year, the former Broxburn Academy pupil said: “Cash raised will go towards hospital equipment, medicines and support groups for women suffering from the illness.”

“After going through this I feel as though I want to give a little back and help in any way I can. My scans are clear at the moment which is good. I hope to be in remission when the treatment is finished for five years but at any point in that five years the cancer can come back, so I’m staying positive.”

schoolfriend Laura Purvis, said at the time: “Michelle is a remarkable lady. She is absolutely brilliant. She set up the trust because she wants to raise awareness of the condition and wants to give a bit back.”

Her father, affectionately nicknamed “Wee Willie” was one of Rangers’ star players in the 1960s.