Callum Ainley’s message to Grimsby Town fans after cancer diagnosis

Callum Ainley expressed his thanks to Grimsby Town and the fans for their support as news of his thyroid cancer diagnosis was made public. The 26-year-old has made seven substitute appearances for the Mariners since joining as a free agent this season but has not appeared in a matchday squad since December 16, with the reason for that being confirmed by the club in a released statement. It read: “Grimsby Town Football Club is saddened to announce that midfielder Callum Ainley was recently diagnosed with thyroid cancer.

“The 26-year-old, who joined the Mariners from Crewe Alexandra in the summer, has undergone surgery and will now take some time at home to recover to return to training mid-late February. “Callum has shown great strength of character since he received the news and he is currently being supported by the Club to ensure he has everything he needs. We wish Callum a speedy recovery.

We hope to see him back in a black and white shirt very soon.” With Ainley now on the road to recovery after surgery, hopefully, the worst is behind him and he can soon once again focus on playing and making an impact for Town for the rest of this season. The midfielder made close to 300 appearances for Crewe, coming through the academy and having worked with current Grimsby boss David Artell previously while with the Railwaymen, he has a coach who understands not only the player but the man as well.

The update on his situation from the club came with an outpouring of support online from Town fans and others in the football community, including his former club Crewe. They wrote: “We are all with you, @Callum_Ainley. Wishing you all the very best in your recovery, Callum.”

Ainley took to social media himself, to thank those who had sent their well wishes, as well as his current employers Grimsby for the support they have provided him during this no doubt difficult and scary time. He said: “Overwhelmed with all the messages thank you! Thank you to everyone at @officialgtfc for the support.

I’ll be back in no time.”

References

1. ^ Grimsby Town reflect on a week of hurt and togetherness (www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk)