Dad Suffering from ALS Throws Surprise Party for 7-Year-Old Daughter from Hospice Bed
There’s a reason the term “Daddy’s Little Girl” came about — there is often a very special bond between a loving father and his daughter.
One dad pulled out all the stops he could when it came to celebrating his daughter Isabella’s 7th birthday. Fernando Ricksen wanted to surprise his little girl with a party of her own.
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The 42-year-old Danish athlete is a former pro soccer player, perhaps most well known for his career with the Rangers.
People reported that Ricksen retired from the sport in 2013 after being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) — more commonly known as ALS.
He was given 18 months to live at the time.
But Ricksen pressed on and 6 years later he continues to battle the terminal illness that keeps him from walking and even speaking. It can also be difficult to breathe and eat.
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Despite all he’s faced, Ricksen wasn’t about to forget about Isabella’s birthday. With the help of his wife Veronika, the former soccer champ had his hospital room decked out in all the things Isabella would love.
“Best daddy ever, best surprise for our little girl,” Veronika wrote on Instagram. “Thank you so much for making her happy.”
In the video the happy mom shared of the special moment, little Isabella can be seen entering her dad’s room. The camera pans over to balloons, a unicorn cake and a headband and gifts.
Her excitement is so sweet but nothing is more precious than the smile on her dad’s face. There’s no denying his daughter means everything to him.
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According to People, Ricksen told Eurosport.com that he has no plans to give up.
“Inside me there is a fighting spirit, there always has been,” Ricksen reportedly said. “I will fight this. I know it will be difficult but I will battle all the way.”
With his wife and daughter by his side, there’s no doubt he’ll have the strength and encouragement he needs to carry on.
Fans of Ricksen can catch him one last time at a special event being held on June 28, 2019 at the GoGlasgow Urban Hotel.
“This is going to be a night to remember!” the event page on Facebook reads. “Let’s do Fernando proud with what will be an amazing event! “
For more information of Fernando Ricken’s battle with MND (ALS), visit his foundation’s website at fernandoricksenfoundation.org.
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