Former Liverpool youngster Stephen Darby has sent a heartfelt message to supporters of Bradford City after they held a fundraising night in his honour to help raise funds and awareness of motor neurone disease.
The 30-year-old defender was forced to retire from football back in September after being diagnosed with the incurable condition that affects the brain and nerves.
At the time, the world of football rallied behind Darby, who is married to England women's star Steph Houghton.
Darby was unable to attend the event but he made sure the supporters knew how much he appreciated their support with a video message posted on Bradford City's Twitter page on Wednesday.
Wearing a Bradford claret and amber scarf, Darby said: 'Motor neurone disease is something that's really rare, and for us to find a better treatment and a cure it's crucial that we raise awareness and funds so what you're all doing tonight is absolutely fantastic and it's really special and from the bottom of my heart I can't thank you enough.
'I hope you all know how much Bradford City as a club and the Bradford fans and the Bradford people mean to me.'
He added: 'Obviously the last couple of months have been quite difficult and tough for me, my wife and the family.
'But I'd just like you all to know I feel good about myself, I feel positive, strong and we'll keep looking forward and do everything we can to raise awareness and raise funds to beat this disease.'
Darby, who began his career at his hometown club Liverpool and later made more than 200 appearances for Bradford City, received the diagnosis from a specialist.
He made one Premier League appearance and three in the Champions League before joining Bolton in summer 2017.
Darby's former team Liverpool were among many teams, players and fans to send their best wishes to him when he retired.
And on Wednesday he revealed plans to hold a charity match at Braford's Valley Parade in the new year as he looks to use his diagnosis to raise more awareness about the deadly disease.
The former defender also thanked the footballing world for their support during his difficult few months and insisted, despite his condition that he 'feels good... positive (and) strong'.
'It'd be nice to get back to Valley Parade at some point to see you all and to see so many familiar faces,' he said.
'From the bottom of my heart I really can't thank you all enough for the love and support which you've shown me over the last couple of months. The support I've had, the messages, they've really touched me and it's really been overwhelming.
'I'd just like you all to know, there's always a special place in my heart for Bradford City and the Bradford people and I hope you all know that. So have a fantastic night, enjoy yourselves, hopefully see you all soon. Take care!'