Isle of Wight goalkeeper Natalie Blandford has sadly lost her battle against cancer, her football club Wight Eagles announced at the weekend.
2 years ago, Natalie was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Her family organised a fundraiser for her to fulfil her final wishes – 1 of which was to watch her team West Ham play at Upton Park.
Over £7,000 was raised for her benefit, as first reported by Island Echo.
On Sunday, a minute’s silence was observed in memory of Natalie before the friendly game between Wight Eagles and Isle of Wight Ladies at Wootton Recreation Ground.
Wight Eagles have said:
“It is with great sadness that we have learnt that our number 1 Natalie has passed away.
“Nat was our number 1 for a number of seasons, and she was a massive part of the senior team and the club. Nat absolutely loved being a goalkeeper, and football meant everything to her.
“She always made sure everyone on the team was OK; she was also a great mentor to the younger players in the club. She was a great voice on game days when she was between the sticks.
Article continues below this advertisement “Natalie will be sorely missed by everyone at Wight Eagles. The whole club is thinking of her, sending love to Nat’s wife Connie, her family, and everyone who loved her. A massive hole has been left.
“Sleep tight Natalie. We will miss you.”
