‘Better times ahead’ - Barry Bannan sends heartfelt gift and message Sheffield Wednesday fan with cancer
Owls hero Barry Bannan sent cards and chocolates to a supporter recovering from thyroid cancer
Former Sheffield Wednesday fan favourite Barry Bannan has sent a message of support and a gift to an Owls season ticket holder after learning that he was recovering from cancer.
James Howlett, 27, who left Sheffield to move to Paris three years ago, was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in February.
He underwent an operation in April and was recovering back home at his parents’ house in Cumbria when he was surprised to receive a letter of support and some chocolates from his favourite player - Barry Bannan.
James said: “I was absolutely delighted when I received that letter through the post. It was a really nice surprise. This gesture shows the kindness and consideration that Barry and his family have shown to fans both throughout his career here and even now that he’s left. It really means a lot.”
Bannan, who racked up 477 appearances across all competitions for the Hillsborough outfit before joining Millwall in January and was club captain for many years, sent James his best wishes and told him better times are coming.
The message reads: “Dear James. Your lovely mum told us that you’re having a bit of a tough time at the moment, so we wanted to send you this card to wish you all the very best with your treatment and recovery.
“We’re sure the recent news surrounding SWFC’s new ownership has given you a bit of a boost too. It’s brilliant to hear you're heading back to Sheffield to make full use of your season ticket, although swapping Paris for Sheffield is truly great dedication.
“We were so sorry you couldn’t make the charity night this year, especially with Westwood there, but we’d absolutely love to sort you out for next year as our guest.
“Sending you a huge Wednesday hug and a little cheer to brighten your days. Keep staying strong James! Better times are ahead, and everyone is rooting for you. Lots of love, and our very best wishes, the Bannan family.”
James, who hails from Norton Lees, is on the mend and says that he’s planning to move back to Sheffield once his treatment is over.
“I have had two surgeries since my diagnosis and the whole thing has left me needing to take medication several times a day. It also means that I get tired quickly on an average day but I hope this will improve.”
He added: “I’ve got one course of radioactive iodine treatment to come in the next month. Once that’s finished I’m hoping to get back to normal life in Sheffield.”
James is looking forward to happier time following the club’s recent takeover and his optimism about the new era under David Storch.
“Personally, I’m really looking forward to next season. To finally get to a point where it finally feels like there’s light at the end of the tunnel is really quite an exciting prospect.
“I can’t wait to be back at Hillsborough regularly once the treatment is over.”