The family of an Edinburgh dad who lost his battle with motor neurone disease (MND) last month, are asking both Hibernian and Hearts fans to come together for a minute's applause at the match on August 7.
Phil Meikle's family and friends hope to raise more awareness about the disease, as well as bring attention to the work that Hearts do with MND Scotland.
Shaun Meikle, Phil’s son, told Edinburgh Live how how dad was first diagnosed with the deadly illness months before the pandemic hit Scotland.
He said: “My dad was born on April 7, 1956 - and was loved by everyone who knew him. A loving family man, and a great friend to so many.
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“He was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in October 2019. Even with this horrific illness, he still managed to get to the Hibs games and have a season ticket at Easter Road.
“He passed away on July 4. It’s a devastating illness and my family and I are trying to raise more awareness about the cruel disease.”
At the Hibs v Hearts game on August 7, which kicks off at midday at Easter Road, Phil’s family are asking all fans at the stadium to join in for one minute of applause. Shaun hopes to not only make a tribute to his father, but also get people talking about MND.
He said: “We thought in the 66th minute, both sets of fans could come together and take part in a minute's applause.
“Hearts do excellent work for MND Scotland and their sponsor is on the strip. Also, Hearts sadly lost their great captain Marius Žaliūkas to this horrendous illness.
“We thought for that one minute in a heated derby, both sets of fans could come together and applaud - not only a fitting tribute for my Dad but for Žaliūkas and for every person or family dealing with MND, because it isn’t a well known illness and only 5,000 people have it in Britain.
After Phil’s daughter Ashlea shared a post on Twitter about the plans, Hearts retweeted her - adding: “Our thoughts are with you and your family, Ashlea.
“Jambos attending Easter Road on Sunday, put your hands together in the 66th minute.”
After Shaun shared a post on Facebook letting people know about the plans, football fans were quick to express they’d be joining in.
One supporter commented: “I’m sure the Hearts fans will certainly do their bit.”
Another wrote: “Seen this shared on a Hearts page, so sorry for your loss. We will of course join in your applause.”
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