Young North Melbourne fan George McNees has lost his almost lifelong battle with brain cancer.
Doctors found a tumour in nine-year-old George’s brain at just 11 months old.
They removed 97 per cent of it through surgery, but he still faced an almighty battle for survival.
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With the help of chemotherapy and treatment, George was given a 30 per cent chance to beat the cancer. Without it, he was given no chance.
He sadly died on Wednesday.
“George peacefully passed away at home in the early hours of the morning on September 4th, pain free and now cancer-free,” his family wrote in a statement.
“George, you now can open the batting and the bowling for cricket, stand in the goal square and kick a bag with the footy, put the goalie gloves on and save the winning shot every time, shoot three points anytime time you want, or just play PlayStation.
“Heaven is a magical place and you will be the best angel they have now.”
The youngster had been welcomed into Arden Street by the Kangaroos a number of times throughout his short life.
His favourite club paid tribute to him on Thursday.
“We’re shattered to share with you that young North Melbourne fan George McNees, who you may have seen spent a lot of time with us, has passed away,” North Melbourne wrote.
“A longtime patient at the Royal Children’s Hospital, George had battled brain cancer since he was a baby, and sadly he lost his fight yesterday.
“A big Roos man from the start, he spent time at the club and at our home fixtures in Melbourne and Hobart, and had a huge impact on our players and staff.
“@NMFCWomens will wear black armbands in Sunday’s AFLW clash, which will help raise money for the Good Friday Appeal.
“Our thoughts are with George’s mum Sarah, dad Darren, sister Arabella and the entire McNees family.”
There was an outpouring of support from fans reading the sad news.
“Heartbreaking,” one said. “Sending love to little George’s family and friends, and to everyone who knew him.
“Glad the club and players could provide him with the experiences they did to bring some joy to his and his family’s lives.
“Thanks George for all the joy you brought to ours too!”
In 2016, when the tumour was found in George’s head, a fundraising page was set up to assist with his medical bills.
“Over the Easter break, 11 month old George McNees underwent a MRI that found a large tumour at the base of his skull,” campaign creator Emma Harris wrote on the page at the time.
“He was immediately taken to surgery, where doctors removed 97% of the tumour. George has been diagnosed with what the doctors think is ependymoma (a form of cancer that develops in the tissues of the brain and spinal cord).
“From here, George requires chemotherapy and ongoing medical treatment, as without it, there is no chance of survival. With the treatment, George stands a 30 per cent chance of making it through.
“Treatment will take place at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, where the family will stay for up to 6 months.”
