Terminally ill 60-yr-old fan waited his whole life for a trophy — his team won just before his time ran out

If you consider yourself a true sports fan, mere support isn't enough. Devoted fans don’t just cheer; they live and breathe for their favorite teams. Every win is a personal triumph, while each loss feels like a deep heartbreak. Being a passionate supporter means embracing the highs and lows, and rallying behind your team through thick and thin. Steven Hunter, a 61-year-old throat cancer patient, is one such passionate fan of Newcastle United, an English soccer club, as reported by Indy100. Back in November 2024, Hunter was informed that he had only six months to live and added that watching his favorite football team win was an "absolute pleasure," according to the BBC.

Interestingly, it was Eddie Howe, the Newcastle United manager, who turned Hunter's wish into reality. The ailing cancer patient was called to meet Howe at St James' Park after a press conference. During their interaction, Hunter even offered some insightful suggestions for the football team. He suggested Howe include Sandro Tonali in the starting lineup in the match against Brentford, per the outlet. "Seeing them lifting the trophy yesterday was just the pinnacle. It was just an amazing moment," Hunter shared, according to the Independent. Notably, after claiming victory against Brentford, Newcastle United went on to win the major domestic trophy after 7 decades by defeating Liverpool at Wembley. 

Despite challenges, Hunter's resilience holds onto life, finding strength and hope in the smallest joyful moments. "Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with a terminal illness. It's all about attitude, I think. You may not have long left, but you've got to make the most of what you've got left," he told the BBC, reflecting on his positive attitude and approach toward adversity in life. Soon after Hunter's story went public, he shared that he received a lot of love from Newcastle's rivals’ fans too.

"I don't think I'm brave or anything special. I'm just a bloke who likes football and enjoys watching it," he added. Besides, Hunter also talked about how the team took his suggestion seriously. He jokingly said, "Tonali went on to score, so I like to think that he took that from me," referring to the footballer's performance in the match.

Moreover, the brave man who was told he had only half a year to survive is now confident that he will easily "outdo" that timeframe. Hunter, a barber by profession, also revealed that he is contemplating joining a gym to stay fit. He told the Independent, "I know it’s waiting for us, but I stay positive. I was given six months in November. I’m going to outdo that. I’m trying to get to the gym, I try to get in the sea, and I keep myself positive; that’s all you can do." In an interview with BBC Sport Tyne & Wear (@bbcnewcastle), Hunter expressed how he was prepared not to die before watching the team.

Meanwhile, the official Instagram page of the Premier League (@premierleague) shared a heartfelt post about Hunter's aspiration to see Tonali start Newcastle's match against Brentford in the quarter-final. Reacting to the post, @ginagreen1550 commented, "Sometimes, the fan sees what coaches don't. Thanks to him for the great idea he shared." @timrutten_1 shared, "This is why we love football. Not just a sport but more than that!" @marty_evans_ revealed, "Stephen Hunter is an absolute gentleman. He sponsored my team 20 years ago, and when I went on my football scholarship, he even offered to sponsor me and pay for my football boots. I’m glad the press and wider audience can see what an absolute local hero he is."

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