On Sunday 24th September 2023, Derby County goalkeeper Josh Vickers posted the following message on his social media platforms.
“I have written and unwritten this so many times and still can't find the right words to say and don't know if I ever will.
On Tuesday evening my wife lost her long battle against cancer.
Laura is the strongest, bravest and most loving person I have ever met. Even through everything she was going through, she continued to smile, never letting anything get in the way of having a good time and making a lifetime of memories.
We have cried, laughed and danced our way through some tough times.
I will cherish every moment we spent together from the first time we met to the moment you peacefully passed. I know that you will be looking down on me and continuing to inspire me every day.
Thank you to everyone that has supported myself and both families through this incredibly difficult time.
Truly fortunate to have the most amazing family and friends!
I Love You Always & Forever.”
Tonight’s game against Lincoln City carries significance for Josh and those closest to him as Lincoln is the city where he and Laura met during his time playing for the Imps.
They would later set up their home in the area around Laura’s family and friends and a number of those will be in attendance this evening.
The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity provided great support to Laura, and Josh, over the years and we would like to pay tribute to their work.
Any supporters wishing to make a donation to the Charity can do so by visiting: royalmarsden.org/donate.
Derby's players will wear t-shirts supporting the charity in the
pre-match warm-up tonight alongside all wearing pin-badges displaying their logo on arrival at Pride
Park Stadium.
In addition, the club has donated some items to be used by The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity for raffles, auctions and other fundraising initiatives.
A Message From Josh Vickers
I would just like to say, on behalf of myself and both families, thank you so much for your love and support in this difficult time, it has helped me more than I can ever say and write down into words.
The support I have received from my team-mates and everyone at the football club, and you the fans, has been overwhelming and I will be forever grateful.
I know this time of year costs families enough money, but if you could make any sort of donation to The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, where Laura had the most amazing care and support through her journey, it would be very much appreciated.
I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Josh.
