Last month we reflected on the passing of our number 12, Isla Caton – a lifelong hammer who suffered from Neuroblastoma, a rare form of childhood cancer.
Her death moved the West Ham fan base and the footballing world and the response from our club, our fanbase and various others around the country is testament to the wonderful little girl Isla was.
The response over the last month has been astounding and it has involved football clubs up and down the country.
West Ham’s liveliest of rivals, Millwall held a wonderful minute’s applause at their game against West Brom to highlight that ‘Cancer Has No Colours’.
The club further posted their condolences and support on their various social media platforms.
The Lions have been great throughout Isla’s fight with many individuals fundraising and supporting the cause. Other clubs including Accrington Stanley and Watford also held a minute’s applause for Isla.
Former Hammer, Dapo Afolayan was another that paid his respects when celebrating a goal by lifting his top up to an under armour that read: ‘RIP ISLA CATON’.
The ex-West Ham striker, now at Bolton, dedicated his goal to Isla after the game and explained that Isla was an incredibly strong, inspirational individual.
At West Ham, the commemoration was touching with a minute’s applause held at both the cup game away at Kidderminster and at home to Watford in the Premier League.
Further, at the Watford game, the West Ham players wore pink armbands and Isla was the face of the programme.
A message from Isla’s mum, Nikki, was also played on the big screen before the game.
Nikki expressed her gratitude to all those that showed their love and support inclusive of fans, players and the board.
Around 800 people attended Isla’s funeral at the end of January showing their love and offering their support to the Caton family and friends. Flowers and gifts were brought, and a wonderful display was set up for Isla.
The family now plan to fight harder than ever to make a difference in Isla’s name to ensure that no other child has to go through what Isla did.
Isla will always be special at West Ham, and she will be remembered as our brave little warrior.
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