Ibrox standing ovation for inspiring Bonhill boy named Rangers' Heart Hero

An inspiring Bonhill youngster received a standing ovation at Ibrox, after being named Rangers’ Heart Hero.

Last week we told how eight-year-old Iain Norrie was chosen by the club to receive the accolade for fighting congenital disorder Kabuki Syndrome with bravery and dignity.

Despite his young age, Iain has already undergone 20 surgeries in his short life, the first at only 48 hours old, and spent the first 150 days of his life in hospital.

The Rangers-daft youngster was nominated for the award by mum Nicola who said his infectious personality and determination has touched the hearts of everyone around him.

Iain, accompanied by mum Nicola and Rangers star Connor Goldson, took to the pitch at half-time in the Gers’ 5-2 victory against Dundee last week.

And Iain proved somewhat of a lucky charm, with four of his side’s five goals coming after the break.

Mum Nicola told the Lennox: “Iain had a great time and we’re very grateful to Rangers for the opportunity.

“When he was on the pitch the reaction from the crowd was amazing. Everyone stood up and gave him a massive cheer. He got a standing ovation from the full stadium.

“We didn’t tell Iain that he’d won the award until the day we were going to Ibrox. Because he would’ve been too excited.

“When we told him that he was going to Ibrox and that he’d be on the pitch at half-time, the first thing he asked was if he could wear his new football boots. And the second thing he asked was if he could take his ball.

“He was all excited when we picked him up from school and got him home and changed. He was lucky because we had family members all round the stadium in different areas, and lots of friends all around the ground. It was a special experience.”

And Nicola reserved praise for defender Goldson, who underwent life saving surgery for an aortic aneurysm himself earlier in his career.

She continued: “Connor Goldson was wonderful and really helped Iain to be calm at the side of the pitch beforehand.

“Connor was very much looking forward to meeting Iain. You could tell he was in awe of Iain as much as Iain was in awe of Connor as one of his footballing heroes.

“Iain’s story clearly meant a lot to Connor. He said what a great young man he was. He was so kind and he tried so hard to connect with Iain.

“He took the time to chat with Iain which was lovely. He was absolutely great with him.”

She now hopes Iain’s story can help raise awareness of heart conditions - and the one in 32,000 Kabuki syndrome, which affects him both physically and intellectually.

Nicola added: “There was so much love and support. It was really heartwarming.

“The fact we’re raising awareness about heart conditions and rare syndromes like Kabuki is really good.

“We wouldn’t be here without the work and support of the staff who have looked after him since before he was even born. We knew before he was born that he would have something different with his heart.

“Without that ongoing support we wouldn’t be here.

“It’s not all hearts and flowers in this life. We’ve all got challenges to face.

“Iain inspires other people because of his strength, resilience, attitude and outlook. Nothing stops him. He’s so determined.

“We have hope that he can continue to grow, thrive and be happy. Which is the most important thing.

“Having these opportunities that the Rangers Foundation have afforded him is just wonderful. That’s something that he’ll never forget, and something that doesn’t happen very often.

“He deserves it. He deserves the opportunity to tell his story.”